European Union and the Nation States

The course aims to develop students' argumentation skills and debating culture by engaging with the controversial issues of European integration. It aims to shed light on how current domestic and foreign policy debates on the future of the European Union and nation states can be interpreted in a broader perspective, which theoretical arguments can be used to support contradictory positions and which practical examples can be given by the proponents of the different positions. The course will function like a classic debate forum in which the lecturer will play both the role of moderator and devil's advocate.

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.