Philosophy 170 - Problems in Social Thought

Participating in a functioning democracy requires engagement with a variety of sociopolitical questions. Here are some currently relevant examples: Should the Westboro Baptist Church be allowed to protest military funerals? What is the right balance between toleration and religious freedom? Should undocumented immigrants be allowed to become citizens? Do all citizens have a right to health care? Are preventive drone strikes in foreign soil morally permissible? Are whistle-blowers heroes or traitors? This course provides the opportunity for a careful examination of these complex questions about liberty, justice, and security. (Gen. Ed. SB)