Theories of Justice
UndergraduateMAQ-PHIX3572019
Course information for 2019 intake View information for 2025 course intake
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.
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- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- -
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Theories of Justice
About this subject
At the completion of this subject students will have:
- a good general knowledge of some of the major theories and current debates in contemporary political philosophy
- an ability to understand and analyse arguments in the relevant literature
- an ability to evaluate these theories and arguments critically
- the ability to develop your own view or perspective through consideration and analysis of the views and arguments presented in the subject
- clarity of thought, clarity of written expression and exposition.
- Section 1: Equality and Inequality - Introduction: Equality and Diversity
- Section 1: Utilitarianism
- Section 1: Rawls Theory of Justice
- Section 1: Dworkin on Equality (Luck Egalitarianism)
- Section 1: Nozick's Libertarianism
- Section 1: Analytical Marxism
- Section 2: Diversity, Citizenship and Justice: Retributive Justice, Criminality and Punishment
- Section 2: Feminism
- Section 2: Citizenship
- Section 2: Multiculturalism
- Section 2: Global Justice
This subject was previously known as PHI320 Theories of Justice.
What is justice? This subject explores this important question by examining a number of 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 social questions around justice, such as: 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 protections and privileges? How can we justify punishing those who violate justice? What are the obligations of democratic citizenship? And what do we owe the poor in other countries?
- Participation (10%)
- Research Presentation (15%)
- Comparative Analysis (20%)
- Essay Plan and Essay (35%)
- Quizzes (20%)
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Entry requirements
Equivalent subjects
You should not enrol in this subject if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:
MAQ-PHI320 (Not currently available)
Others
You must complete some Level 1 and 2 studies before starting this subject. Prior study in Philosophy is recommended.
Additional requirements
- Other requirements -
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.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
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