851-0622-00L Inequality and Injustice: Economic and Philosophical Perspectives
| Semester | Autumn Semester 2024 |
| Lecturers | I. Günther, N. Mazouz |
| Periodicity | non-recurring course |
| Course | Does not take place this semester. |
| Language of instruction | German |
| Abstract | Globalization and technological progress in recent decades have on the one hand reduced inequality and led to new forms of inequality on the other hand. The question is whether these new forms of inequality lead to more inequity. This course provides an overview of the current philosophical and economic discourse on inequality and injustice. |
| Learning objective | Using philosophical and economic texts and discussions, students develop an understanding of the concepts, developments, causes, and consequences of inequality. Students will acquire the ability to participate in an informed discourse on the issues of inequality and injustice and to critically reflect on their actions and position in the world. |
| Content | In this seminar we will explore the issues of inequality and injustice. In doing so, we will explore the following questions: What is meant by inequality and injustice? Under what circumstances are inequalities unjust? Have inequalities and injustices increased or decreased over the last 50 years? What are the causes of increasing or decreasing inequality? What do these inequalities and injustices mean for our society? And what public and private measures are needed for more inclusive societies? - Concepts of inequality and injustice - Development of inequality over the last 50 years based on different dimensions of inequality: income, wealth, education, health, CO2 emissions, political participation. - Discrimination of women, people with physical disabilities, people of the "Global South". - Causes of inequality: globalization, technological progress, political systems and institutions, economic system, social discrimination, stereotypes and norms. - Consequences of inequality: justice, dignity, inefficiency - Towards more inclusive societies: the role of policies, civil society, social movements and individual behavior. The seminar is based on readings of economic and philosophical texts and is complemented by short presentations and discussions with scholars of philosophy and economics. In some cases, practitioners will also be invited to the seminar. Students will apply the concepts, theories and knowledge covered in the course to practical issues related to inequality and inequity. |