Undergraduate MAQ-PHIX3057-2021
Theories of Justice
Previously MAQ-PHIX357-2020
Weigh up competing philosophical theories about justice and its role in society. Begin with John Rawls' bedrock theory of justice. Spearhead discussions about equality, multiculturalism and gender. Interrogate the obligations of democratic citizens.
$1,850 $2,100
Your upfront cost: $0
Duration
18 weeks
Study method
100% online
Available loans
- HECS-HELP
- FEE-HELP
Assessments
100% online
Prior study
Not required
Study terms
- 26 Jul 2021
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 30,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
QS RANKING 2021
12
Times Higher Education Ranking 2021
12
Subject details
On successful completion of this subject, you will be able to:
- understand some of the major theories and current debates in contemporary political philosophy.
- analyse arguments in the relevant literature
- evaluate relevant theories and arguments critically
- communicate clearly your own own perspective on the views and arguments presented in the subject.
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- Utilitarianism
- Rawls Theory of Justice
- Dworkin on Equality
- Nozick's Libertarianism
- Analytical Marxism
- Feminism
- Multiculturalism
- Global Justice
- Environmental Justice
- Animal Justice
Equivalent subjects
You cannot enrol in this subject if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:
- MAQ-PHI320
- MAQ-PHIX357-Theories of Justice
Others
Pre-requisite 130cp at 1000 level or above NCCW (pre-2020 units) PHI320, PHL357, PHIL357, PHIX357 NCCW (2020 and onwards) PHIL3057 Theories of Justice
Special requirements
- OtherDetails -
Students who have an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion under Macquarie University's Academic Progression Policy are not permitted to enrol in OUA units offered by Macquarie University. Students with an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion who have enrolled in units through OUA will be withdrawn.
This subject was previously known as PHI320, PHIX357 Theories of Justice.
What is justice? What is fair? This subject explores these important questions by examining several leading contemporary philosophical theories of justice, including John Rawls's influential theory of justice, and assessing the capacity of these theories to respond to pressing social issues. To do this we look at issues of inequality and diversity in society by asking: what degree of inequality, if any, can be justified? We explore the different answers to this question proposed by liberals, libertarians, and Marxists. We shall also examine broader questions around social and retributive justice, such as: How can we justify punishing those who violate justice? Should we focus more on the well-being of communities and less on the rights of individuals? Is justice biased against women? Should minorities receive special rights?What are the obligations of democratic citizenship? And what do we owe the poor in other countries?
- Participation (20%)
- Reflective writing (20%)
- Philosophical essay (40%)
- Quizzes (20%)
Check the learning management system (LMS) of your university for textbook details.
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