Politics have become an area of confusion, conflict, and deadlock. This summer, we will get past the muddle and initiate reasoned, productive, real political conversation by returning to first principles. What is the purpose of the state? What does it mean to have a just society? Guided by our study of Plato, Aristotle, and excerpts from various political philosophers, we will explore the moral and philosophical foundations of human political communities.

Monday: Plato, Republic

Tuesday: Aristotle, Politics

Wednesday: Hobbes, Leviathan

Thursday: Locke, The Declaration of Independence

Friday: Mill, On Liberty