Politics & Social Theory

Most political problems (theory and practice) throughout history have centered on the dilemma of the “Socratic Problem.” The Socratic Problem may be stated as, “How can the individual be granted maximum freedom, yet be controlled by the rule of law for the good of society?” [1] This never-ending conflict over the solution to the Socratic Problem is at the center of social debate here in America, as it is throughout the world. Indeed, historically, even James Madison, the father of the Constitution and the fourth president of the United States wrote, “every word of the Constitution decides a question between power and liberty…” [2] Generally speaking, there are two options available for determining how much freedom is too much: the State operating from a top-down, paternalistic position of power or the people acting through some sort of democratic process that allows the most participation in determining social norms by which they want to be governed.

Nonetheless, are some political systems better than others? Do we need experts to tell us “what we really need”? Or can we figure it out ourselves?

Course Objectives:

1. Our class telos will be to examine various thinkers, philosophers and theologians through the ages and see where they all line up in terms of providing freedom and protection as social theorists. Students will examine these thinkers and be encouraged to become proficient in the contemplation of the purpose, place and limits of governmental authority as well as reasonable expectations from political action.
2. Equally, students will be engaged in the conversational approach to learning: close readings, interpretive questions, and Socratic discussions of the texts.
3. Students will develop lateral thinking skills by way of analyzing and synthesizing themes and motifs from various texts and strive to write persuasively about the perennial human questions of human stewardship and flourishing.

Texts:

• Classics in Political Philosophy; 3rd edition - Jene M. Porter, editor
• The Emergence of Liberty in the Modern World: The Influence of Calvin on Five Governments - Douglas F. Kelley
• Politica - Johannes Althusius
• Political Paternalism vs the Natural Order: How Natural Law will give people freedom - Edward Straka

[1] Michael Kelley, On Stone Or Sand: The Ethics of Christianity, Capitalism, & Socialism, (Carson, ND: Pleroma Press, 1993), p. 190.

[2] James Madison, National Gazette, January 19th, 1792.