Face-to-face , first term, 30 hours of theory.

First term
Thursday from 11:00 to 13:00 at 43 Botanique 5

English

The main aim of the course is to give a general overview of the core problems in contemporary economic ethics (see below for further details). Theories of justice will be used to address concrete questions such as: What differences between advanced capitalist economies in terms of income distribution and social mobility? Do we have specific duties towards the poor in developing countries? Should everyone be guaranteed an unconditional basic income? What content should we give to the popular idea of "social responsibility of companies"? In other words, the course shall help the students to include normative considerations into their study of economic issues, in a systematic and critical way. Active involvement of the students during the discussions in class will be encouraged.

For the Bachelor in Law :

For the Bachelor in Information and Communication :

For the Bachelor in Business Engineering :

For the Bachelor in Economics and Management :

For the Bachelor in Political Sciences: General :

For the Bachelor in Sociology and Anthropology :

None

The following themes are subject to change.
1. General Introduction
2. "The Economy": capitalism and the market.
Section 2 is mainly devoted to a brief history of capitalism, and focuses on the idea of "the three worlds of welfare capitalism".
3. "Ethics": social justice and the economy.
Section 3 includes a brief overview of some the main theories of contemporary justice, paying special attention to their implications on the analysis of real economic institutions.
4. Is the market economy compatible with social justice?
Section 4 is focused on empirical issues related to welfare capitalism. We will mainly focus on two issues: inequalities and poverty on the one hand, and redistribution on the other.
5. The problem of global justice
Most contemporary political philosophers are primarily concerned with justice within a given society. Yet in recent years, economic ethical discussions have also focused on justice on a global scale, which has become an important topic of discussion in connection with the globalisation of capitalism.
6. Radical alternatives: The example of a "basic income"
Section 6 will be devoted to a detailed analysis of a radical proposal: the idea of granting everyone an unconditional “basic income” (or “universal income”). What are the ethical implications of such a reform? Is this compatible with the main theories of justice? This section will also include a discussion of the feminist critique of welfare capitalism.
7. Conclusions

Ex cathedra presentations.
As far as possible lectures will include discussion times with the class.

The assessment is a written examination that includes reflection questions.

A detailed bibliography is included in each summary of course sessions and allows students to extend their reflection on issues of contemporary economic ethics.

Syllabus: summaries of the lessons will be made available online (eSaintLouis). Note that regular attendance at the lessons is highly recommended.