An introduction to Karl Marx's theory of history, known as historical materialism.
Category: Social & Political
The Ethics of Mozi: Social Organization and Impartial Care
An introduction to the ethics of Mo Di, or Mozi, (墨子, c. 470 – c. 391 BCE), the founding figure of Mohism, a philosophical, social, and self-defense movement during the Warring States era (479–221 BCE) in China.
Condorcet’s Jury Theorem and Democracy
This essay explains Marquis de Condorcet’s "jury theorem" and how philosophers have used it as an argument for democracy.
What Is Misogyny?
"Misogyny" refers to systems that uphold gender-based oppression against women and girls. What those systems are, and how they operate, is a subject of philosophical debate. Here we explain two prominent accounts of these systems and discuss whether misogyny can be understood independently of broader systems of oppression.
Philosophy and Race: An Introduction to Philosophy of Race
An introduction to philosophy and race: an Introduction to Philosophy of Race.
Ursula Le Guin’s “The Ones who Walk Away from Omelas”: Would You Walk Away?
An essay on the ethical and philosophical issues of Ursula Le Guin’s “The Ones who Walk Away from Omelas.”
Philosophy of Law: An Overview
There are many topics related to law that philosophers study. This essay provides an overview of common topics in philosophy of law.
Why be Moral? Plato’s ‘Ring of Gyges’ Thought Experiment
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 offers a blueprint for an ideal society. Plato thinks that you should do what’s right, even in these circumstances. This essay explains one of the strongest objections to his position.
Indoctrination: What is it to Indoctrinate Someone?
An introduction to the concept of indoctrination or what it is to indoctrinate someone, and whether that's problematic or bad or not.
George Orwell’s Philosophical Views
An introduction to the philosophical views of Animal Farm and 1984 author George Orwell.