New Honors Class for Fall 2024: “Honors: Social and Political Philosophy”

“Leviathan”, Abraham Bosse (ca. 1604-1676), in collaboration with Thomas Hobbes

Honors: Social and Political Philosophy

Professor Patrick O’Donnell

TR 12:30AM-1:45PM, Des Plaines Campus

Register for PHL 160 0H1 (CRN: 315853135)

Gen Ed: Humanities

Concentrations: Great Books; Peace and Social Justice Studies; Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Description: What is justice? What is freedom? What is power? How have these concepts been used for purposes of both oppression and liberation? What explains economic, racial, and gendered inequalities? What does justice require of us, both as individuals and as a society? What political, economic, and cultural forces have combined to produce the challenges and possibilities we face as a global community today? Join us in Fall 2024 as we try to get to the bottom of these and other questions through the guidance of modern and contemporary sources drawn from liberal, conservative, Marxist, feminist, anti-racist, and radical intellectual traditions. No prerequisites. All that is required is curiosity and a willingness to read and discuss philosophical texts in a reflective, collegial, and welcoming environment!

First time the class is being offered as a dedicated Honors class!

For questions, please contact Prof. Patrick O’Donnell.