Category: Social & Political

Ursula Le Guin’s “The Ones who Walk Away from Omelas”: Would You Walk Away?

The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas
~ 1000-Word Philosophy: An Introductory Anthology ~ Leave a comment

By Spencer Case Categories: Ethics, Social and Political Philosophy Word Count: 1,000 When, if ever, is it right to sacrifice someone for the greater good? Ursula K. Le Guin’s (1929-2018) fantasy short story, “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas,” raises this question, among others.[1] This essay introduces her story and explores its philosophical implications. … Continue reading Ursula Le Guin’s “The Ones who Walk Away from Omelas”: Would You Walk Away?

Why be Moral? Plato’s ‘Ring of Gyges’ Thought Experiment

The Ring of Gyges.
~ 1000-Word Philosophy: An Introductory Anthology ~ 8 Comments

Author: Spencer Case Categories: Ethics, Social and Political Philosophy, Historical Philosophy Word count: 995 What if you could steal, cheat, and violate any other moral norm without fear of punishment? Would you still have reason to do what’s right? The ancient Greek philosopher Plato (427—347 B.C.E.) considered this question in his dialogue, the Republic, which … Continue reading Why be Moral? Plato’s ‘Ring of Gyges’ Thought Experiment

Distributive Justice: How Should Resources be Allocated?

Distributing the good of watching a game.
~ 1000-Word Philosophy: An Introductory Anthology ~ 4 Comments

Authors: Dick Timmer and Tim Meijers Category: Social and Political Philosophy, Ethics Word Count: 994 As we write this, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is worth $188 billion.[1] That is about $1 billion more than the day before. And $1 billion is more money than you would have had you earned $1,000 a day, every day, … Continue reading Distributive Justice: How Should Resources be Allocated?