Spokane Public Library is excited to pilot a new mini-course in political philosophy\, led by our Current Affairs Sp ecialist\, Dr. Shane Gronholz\, who holds a PhD in philosophy.
\nTak ing place each Wednesday in September\, this course will delve into the fo undational questions of political philosophy. Each class is designed to st and alone\, so you can gain valuable insights even if you're unable to att end all sessions.
\nIn his role as Current Affairs Specialist\, Shan e frequently reflects on the nature of our political disagreements and the state of civic dialogue. He posits that many of these disputes stem from differing underlying political philosophies. While understanding these phi losophies may not resolve all disagreements\, it can foster a deeper under standing and appreciation of perspectives different from our own.
\nThe central question we'll explore is: Where does the authority of the gov ernment come from? The government makes a lot rules about who gets to do w hat. Governments have told people whom they can marry\, what drugs they ca n take\, how much they have to pay in taxes\, what rights have to be respe cted (and which ones do not) and much\, much more. Our question is simply: why do they get to do that?
\nThis is a fundamental inquiry in poli tical philosophy\, and your answer to it can significantly shape your view s on what the government is entitled to do. Join us as we unpack this ques tion and explore its far-reaching implications.
\nIn our final session\, we' ll delve into two interconnected theories that justify the existence of go vernment: consequentialism and fairness.
\nConsequentialism posits t hat the legitimacy of government lies in its ability to produce beneficial outcomes for its citizens. The theory suggests that without a governing b ody\, society would descend into anarchy\, leading to a poor quality of li fe for most individuals. We'll explore this theory\, examining the benefit s that governments provide and the potential consequences of a lack of gov ernance.
\nNext\, we'll explore the theory of fairness\, which posit s that one of the primary roles of government is to ensure a level playing field for all citizens. This theory argues that without government interv ention\, power and resources would accumulate among a select few\, leading to inequality and injustice.
\nA key figure associated with this th eory is John Rawls\, who argued that justice is fairness. We'll delve into Rawls' philosophy\, exploring his principles of justice and their implica tions for our understanding of government and society.
\nHowever\, a s with all theories\, consequentialism and fairness have their critics. Af ter introducing these theories\, we'll explore some of the critiques and c hallenges they face\, deepening our understanding of their strengths\, wea knesses\, and implications.
\nJoin us as we critically engage with t hese theories in political philosophy. Whether you're new to the field or looking to deepen your understanding\, this class promises to offer valuab le insights and stimulate thoughtful discussion.
\nBy \;attendin g library programs\, you are agreeing to potentially appear in photos/vide os taken at our locations that may be used in promotional materials includ ing social media.
\nWe strive to make events welcoming for people of all abilities. To request accommodations (i.e. hearing assistance\, ASL r equests\, or other ADA inquiries)\, call the library at 509-444-5308.
\ nhttps://spokanelibrary.libnet.info/event/9046731 URL;VALUE=URI:https://spokanelibrary.libnet.info/event/9046731 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR