College Seminar (101-7-21)

Topic

The State of Nature

Instructors

Chad Horne

Meeting Info

Kresge 3438 Philosophy Sem. Rm: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

In the social contract tradition in political philosophy, exemplified by theorists like Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, the idea of the "state of nature" plays an important role. The state of nature refers to the condition of human beings prior to the development of formal political institutions. For social contract theorists, the justification of political authority hinges on the state's ability to solve the problems that befall us in our natural, pre-political condition. Perhaps needless to say, there have been some developments in our understanding of non-state societies since the heyday of the social contract tradition some three hundred years ago. In this seminar, we will read the classic social contract theorists alongside recent work from anthropologists, historians, and political scientists. Our aim will be to better understand the pre-political condition of our species and to explore the moral and political implications of that condition for us today.

Learning Objectives

As a first-year seminar, one aim of this course is to help students develop core academic skills, including research and time management. Because this is a philosophy course, special attention will be paid to the careful reading and interpretation of texts as well as the reconstruction and critical evaluation of arguments.

Class Materials (Required)

All class materials will be available on Canvas at NO cost to the student.

Class Attributes

WCAS College Seminar

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Weinberg First Year Seminars are only available to first-year students.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required
Drop Consent: Department Consent Required