In a 1000-1500 word essay, critically analyze and compare the political philosophies of libertarianism, liberalism, and communitarianism. Your essay should provide a clear understanding of each philosophy, explore their respective core principles, values, and assumptions, and discuss how each philosophy addresses the role of the individual, the state, and the community in society. Additionally, consider the implications of each philosophy in various real-world contexts, such as social justice, economic policy, or personal freedom, and provide relevant examples. Finally, present your own perspective on which philosophy, or combination of philosophies, provides the most compelling account of how society should be organized and justify your position.
How to Submit:
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Grading Criteria:
Clarity and Organization (20%)
The essay has a clear and concise introduction, body, and conclusion.
The essay is well-structured and organized, with logical flow and effective transitions between sections.
The writing is clear, coherent, and easy to understand, without any significant grammatical or syntactical errors.
Understanding of the Philosophies (30%)
The essay provides accurate and comprehensive explanations of libertarianism, liberalism, and communitarianism.
The essay demonstrates a deep understanding of the key concepts, assumptions, and arguments associated with each philosophy.
The essay addresses the historical context and influential philosophers associated with each philosophy, where relevant.
Critical Analysis (30%)
The essay effectively evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of each philosophy and presents well-reasoned arguments and relevant examples to support these evaluations.
The essay discusses the implications of each philosophy in various real-world contexts (e.g., social justice, economic policy, personal freedom) and demonstrates an understanding of the broader impact of these philosophies on society.
The essay engages with potential objections or counterarguments and provides thoughtful responses to them.
Personal Perspective (10%)
The essay presents a clear and well-reasoned personal perspective on which philosophy or combination of philosophies provides the most compelling account of how society should be organized.
The essay provides a convincing rationale for the chosen perspective, drawing on the analysis of the philosophies and their implications.
Use of Sources and Citations (10%)
The essay incorporates relevant sources, such as primary texts or scholarly articles, to support its arguments and analysis.
The essay appropriately cites all sources using a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, or Chicago).
The essay demonstrates an understanding of the existing literature on the topic and engages with the ideas and arguments of other philosophers in a respectful and thoughtful manner.
Suggested Youtube Videos:
BBC Ideas – “What is libertarianism? A simple guide” (2:54) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRKl8_Do8hA
The School of Life – “POLITICAL THEORY – John Locke” (6:36) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZiWZJgJT7I This video provides an introduction to John Locke’s political philosophy, which is a cornerstone of classical liberalism.
Carneades.org – “What is Liberalism? (Political Philosophy)” (10:04) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpyPF6Ur6PU
Philosophy Tube – “What Was Liberalism? #1 Ideology & Violence” (9:21) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlLgvSduugI
Philosophy Tube – “What Was Liberalism? #2 Capitalism & History” (9:58) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1jJXfufMzc
Philosophy Tube – “What Was Liberalism? #3 Neoliberalism” (9:46) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzVf9ce80Nc
Philosophy Tube – “What Was Liberalism? #4 Three Problems with Liberalism” (9:48) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gCspHmTCpQ
Suggested Encyclopedia Entries:
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, “Libertarianism” Link: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/libertarianism/ This comprehensive encyclopedia entry provides an in-depth overview of libertarianism as a political philosophy, covering its historical development, core principles, and major thinkers.
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, “Liberalism” Link: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/liberalism/ This informative encyclopedia entry offers a detailed overview of liberalism as a political philosophy, discussing its historical development, main principles, and influential thinkers.
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, “Communitarianism” Link: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/communitarianism/ This comprehensive encyclopedia entry provides an overview of communitarianism as a political philosophy, including its historical development, main principles, and key thinkers.