PHI 350 - Democracy

In this course we will consider philosophical work addressed to questions about the nature and value of democracy.  Questions to be considered include: What distinguishes democratic from non-democratic regimes? What values does democracy secure? What is the relationship between elections and democracy?  What is the nature of representation?  For those living in electoral democracies, is there a moral duty to vote?  What conditions must obtain for democracy to succeed, or, when absent, cause democracies to fail?

Satisfies the seminar requirement for the Philosophy major.
Satisfies Philosophy, Politics, and Economics major requirement. (FALL 2026- explorations area)

Prerequisites & Notes
This course can be repeated for credit given sufficiently distinct topics: check with the department chair. (Fall, Spring)