VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Introduction into Political and Social Philosophy
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:38:07
Abstract
How should we live together—within political communities as well as between communities? In this lecture, basic questions of political philosophy and social philosophy and their answers are introduced systematically and historically.
Objective
Students will get an overview of different historical and contemporary approaches in political philosophy and social philosophy. They are enabled to further developing their abilities to understand complex theories, to critically reflect on them and to put them up for discussion.
Content
In this lecture, basic questions of political philosophy and social philosophy and their answers are introduced systematically and historically. For example, fundamental political traditions are addressed, such as what liberalism, cosmopolitanism, republicanism, conservatism, "critical race theory," or feminist political philosophy are and what basic criticisms are made of them. Another focus is democracy and democratic culture and the challenges of populism. Global politics and international relations will be yet another topic. In particular, we will focus on examples from science and technology, such as the potential undermining of the conditions of the possibility of democratic forming of opinion- and will by certain technologies. The performance assessment is done by a short talk in group work as well as a written exam.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Introduction into Political and Social Philosophy
Vorlesung: Mittwoch 16-18 Uhr
Übung: Dienstag 16-18 Uhr
|
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
-
Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
-
Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
-
-
-