We will discuss issues at the focus of modern and 20th century philosophy. No fee. More details of the next debate are posted about a fortnight prior to it taking place.
Venue: The Mary Ward Centre, Queen Square, London WC1N 3AQ (near Russell Square)
There will be debates on 26 Jan, 23 Feb, 17
May, 14 June & 5 July.
All dates are Saturdays, time 2 to 5 pm
17 May: WE LIVE IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY
IN BRITAIN, RIGHT?
Introduced and chaired by Filiz
Peach
Democracy is one of the most misused words in contemporary
society. It claims rule by the people
and yet it has been and in some cases still is used to describe
quite despotic regimes. People
have pre-conceived ideas and there’s biased information about
political problems.
Some fundamental questions to be addressed are:
How do we define democracy and what are the popular democratic
beliefs?
Can we assume that there exists a common good which can be agreed
by everybody in society?
What is the will of a nation?
Is the will of the majority the will of the people?
Does the majority necessarily represent the people?
What is the relationship between democracy and individual freedom?
If democracy isn't what it's supposed to be, then why has it survived
to this day and continues to be regarded as the best form of government?
Suggested reading:
Machiavelli, THE PRINCE
Locke, SECOND TREATISE ON CIVIL GOVERNMENT
Rousseau, SOCIAL CONTRACT
For more information phone (020) 7635 8580 or email us: secretary@pfalondon.org
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