L4 Political Philosophy as Foundation of Politics

Introduction to Political Philosophy

• Political philosophy focuses on ethical concepts applied to governance and social structures.

• It provides standards for analyzing and judging political institutions and relationships.

Definition of Philosophy

• Combination of Greek words meaning "lover of wisdom."

• Study of knowledge, reality, and existence; guides behavior.

• Encourages deep, critical thinking about the world and individual roles.

Political Philosophy Explained

• A branch of philosophy addressing politics, government, and societal power dynamics.

• Explores government legitimacy, resource distribution, and political justice.

Distinction from Political Science

• Political Philosophy:

  • Engages with theoretical, historical texts.

  • Focuses on moral dimensions and normative political ideals.

  • Addresses questions of what ought to be.

• Political Science:

  • Relies on empirical data analysis.

  • Investigates practical applications and how systems function.

  • Focused on descriptive aspects of political behavior.

Political Philosophical Questions

• What is the best form of government?

• Should individuals obey the law?

• How should personal liberties be balanced with state authority?

• What constitutes legitimate governance?

Historical Development

• Ancient Philosophy:

  • Focus on justice and citizenship by thinkers like Plato and Aristotle.

• Medieval Philosophy:

  • Influenced by theology; explored natural law concepts.

• Modern Philosophy:

  • Rise of the nation-state; focused on individual rights and social contracts.

• Contemporary Philosophy:

  • Diverse perspectives including feminist, Marxist, and postmodern critiques.

Key Political Philosophers

• Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Bentham, Mill, Kant, Rawls, Machiavelli, Hume, Marx, Confucius.

Role of Political Philosophy

• Shapes the understanding of political authority and citizen duties.

• Establishes citizens' rights and the state-individual relationship.

• Evaluates political systems and their effectiveness.

Key Concepts

• State, Justice, Power, Rights, Freedom, Democracy, Sovereignty.