Philosophy, Culture and Economics

This course introduces students to cultural issues in contemporary society, encouraging self-reflection and critical thinking in English. Culture will be explored from a variety of perspectives, including economics, politics, philosophy and ethics. Topics for discussion may include: the significance of 'property' within culture and society; the definition of 'wealth'; whether 'poverty' is a relative concept; the relationship between economics and social justice; the role of freedom in economic development; the influence of culture on social welfare; whether social equality is a utopian ideal; and how globalisation shapes our understanding of inequality in today’s world.

Importantly, the course also aims to develop students’ general academic and English skills to a high standard, focusing on research, writing, critical thinking, group discussions and oral presentations.

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Research and compose a coherent essay (including citations) on a topic relating to economics and cultural issues.

• Deliver an academic presentation on a relevant subject, utilising audio-visual aids.

• Engage actively in constructive and critical dialogue.

• Take effective, precise and rigorous notes from high-level academic lectures.

Classes will comprise a blend of lectures and group discussions. Students will gain practice in writing rigorous and critical academic essays addressing relevant issues through one homework essay, a mid-term in-class exam, and a final in-class exam. Oral presentations will provide opportunities to develop clear, coherent and precise communication skills.

Lectures

1. Introduction to the course. 

2. On the idea of 'property'

3. Wealth, society, and culture 

4. Economic freedom and social justice

5. Equality, wealth, and society  [ESSAY DEADLINE]      

6. Economic values, freedom, and culture

7. Social welfare and cultural relativism

8. MID-TERM IN-CLASS EXAM

9. Social equality and cultural utopia

10. Culture and liberal values

11. Inequalities, globalisation, and contemporary culture

12. Course review. Oral presentations skills

13. Students’ presentations 

14. Students’ presentations 

15. FINAL IN-CLASS EXAM

Bibliography

John Locke, Second Treatise of Government (1690)

Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nations (1776)

John Stuart Mill, Principles of Political Economy (1848)

Karl Marx, Capital: Critique of Political Economy (1867)

John Maynard Keynes, The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money (1936)

John Rawls A Theory of Justice (1971)

Robert Nozick Anarchy, State, and Utopia (1974)

Friedrich Hayek, The Pretence of Knowledge (1974)

Amartya Sen Identity and Violence (2006)

The Economist (2012)