Learning outcomes

The course intends to introduce and discuss some of the main themes of political philosophy with particular attention to both contemporary debates and socio-political transformations taking place in the globalized world. The focus will be placed on the question of democracy and the problems of contemporary democracy.

Program

Political conditions of contemporary democracy

The course offers a thorough analysis of the concept of democracy, from a historical-political exploration of the consolidation of the democratic regime in Europe (Petrucciani).
Classes will also deal with the issue of collective action and participation in democratic contexts, and therefore, of the tensions between projects of freedom, equality and social justice, from the point of view of the relations with the State.
Through a study of “populism” in democracy (Revelli) and of new form of political communication (Lorusso), the dynamics of protest and crisis that characterize democracies will finally be discussed in order to understand how the extension of the field of conflict is one of the fundamental conditions on which both the potential and the critical aspects of contemporary democratic model are rooted.

For a better understanding of the study path, it is recommended to read the texts in the following order:
1. Petrucciani / 2. Lorusso / 3. Revelli

In addition to the discussion of the texts in the bibliography, the study will be inspired by the current political events.

The teacher receives students by pre-fixed appointment.

Examination Methods

Oral exam.

The discussion will start with a presentation (8 min.) of a case study (concept, event, fact, phenomenon, etc.) each student had previously choosen and prepared.

N.B.:
• The program and the conditions of the exam are the same for both attending and non-attending students.
• The oral presentation (8 min.) for attending students may also be inspired by the discussions that will have emerged during the lessons and by further documents.
• Participation to class discussions can positively affect the final grade.