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This course explores some key contemporary debates in political philosophy over justice and equality. We will examine topics such as equality of opportunity, socialism, relational egalitarianism, epistemic injustice, reparations, taxation, and structural injustice. We will explore questions like, why, if at all, should we redistribute wealth in society? Is equality something we ought to aim for – and if so, what kind of equality? What is wrong with capitalism? Should states pay reparations? Who is to blame for structural injustice?

The course is taught through a weekly lecture and seminar. The lecture will provide an overview of the week’s topic. The seminars are entirely dedicated to student-led discussion of the weekly topic.

By the end of the module, you should:
• have a good understanding of some of the key works on social justice and equality in contemporary political philosophy;
• be able to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various theories and arguments;
• be able to critically examine texts in political theory;
• have developed your ability to form philosophical arguments and communicate those arguments both orally and in writing.

Depending on your background knowledge, you might find it helpful to consult one or more of the sources below before the start of the term. They can all be found in the ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº Library, and the first two are available online via ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº Library:
• Swift, A. (2013) Political Philosophy: A Beginners' Guide for Students and Politicians, Pts. 1 and 3.
• Kymlicka, W. (2002) Contemporary Political Philosophy: An Introduction, Chs. 3 & 4.
• Cohen, G.A. Why Not Socialism?