Smokey cigar lounges – connection between politics and media

The course aims to familiarise students with the situation, general characteristics and challenges of today's regional media market from an international perspective. In this context, the relationship between media and politics will be examined: How do these two actors influence each other, what are their responsibilities towards society? We will examine the role of the media in politics, the power of PR and the power of lobbyists. We will look at the instruments of politics in the media market, the power of campaigns and their relationship to the fourth branch of power.

Ideologies and their symbols: 20th century totalitarianism and its symbol systems

Political philosophy in everyday life: beyond utilitarianism and libertarianism

The course will not revisit the topics covered in the course Political Philosophy in Everyday Life (utilitarianism, libertarianism), but will introduce students to the political dilemmas of equity and virtue. In addition to political utilitarianism, policy makers have to answer difficult questions such as: should the human dignity of murderers be respected? Why can't a man born outside the US be President of the US? Should those born into poverty be compensated somehow? Does the talent born with us create social injustice? Should we require Hooters to hire male wait staff? Are we really not allowed to lie under any circumstances? Is there really no better principle of social organization than meritocracy? Is positive discrimination necessary? Why should one be loyal to one's country? What is patriotism: virtue or harmful prejudice? Does the common good exist? During the course, students will debate the most fundamental questions of political philosophy, using practical examples to illustrate the arguments for and against.

Political philosophy in everyday life: utilitarianism and libertarianism

Political decisions often present decision-makers with serious dilemmas. Beyond political gain, they must also answer difficult questions such as: Why is it compulsory to wear a seat belt? Is taxation really the same as forced labour? Should the rich pay proportionally more tax? Why should property rights be sacred? Why is compulsory military service good/bad? Should voluntary surrogacy really be banned? During the course, students will debate the most fundamental questions of political philosophy, using practical examples to illustrate the arguments for and against.