SAINT LOUIS SCHOOL, INC.
High School Department
Quirino Highway, Baguio City
(074) 442-3403
A.Y. 2024-2025
Political Philosophy
Members:
AGBUYA Lanz Axyl C.
BEUNAFE John Wayne B.
DELA CRUZ Cean Icze C.
ITABLE Gian Denrick E.
PULIG Randall Keith A.
RAGO Zyrus Achiles P.
SUALOG Liam Daniel A.
POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
Political Philosophy is a space for discussing the theoretical aspects of public life,
including moral, political, social, legal, and economic issues. It encourages
interdisciplinary engagement among various fields like liberalism, socialism,
feminism, critical theory, and more. The forum welcomes both formal and abstract
work as well as grounded and discursive studies. It aims to bring different theories
into conversation with each other and is open to historical and comparative work that
leads to broader philosophical insights. The main focus is on analytical rigor and
scholarly excellence.
1. Nature & Significance of the Topic
Political philosophy is significant because it provides a way to understand and
evaluate political systems, institutions, and practices. By exploring fundamental
questions about justice, power, rights, and the role of the state, political philosophy
helps us critically assess the principles that govern society. It draws on the insights of
historical and contemporary thinkers to address issues such as the distribution of
resources, the legitimacy of authority, and the protection of individual freedoms.
Political philosophy aims to enhance the quality of human life by guiding the
development of fair and effective political arrangements.
2. Branches of Political Philosophy
Analytical Political Philosophy
- it focuses on the analysis of political concepts and arguments
examples: Analyzing the limits and scope of free speech in democratic societies, such
as discussions around hate speech laws.
Examining the balance between national security and individual privacy,
especially with the rise of digital surveillance in our society.
Normative Political Philosophy
- is about exploring what should be rather than what is. It deals with questions about
how political systems and societies ought to be organized and what principles should
guide political decisions.
examples: Efforts to address the ethical implications of climate change, ensuring that
policies are fair to all, especially vulnerable populations.
Historical Political Philosophy
-This branch studies the ideas of past political thinkers and the historical context in
which they lived. It helps us understand how political theories have evolved over time.
-focuses on the past
examples: Plato’s ideas about a just society and the role of philosopher-kings have
influenced modern political thought about governance and justice.
Locke’s ideas about natural rights and government by consent have shaped
modern democratic principles.
Political Ethics
-is about making moral judgments regarding political actions and the behavior of
political agents. It also covers 2 areas which are
Ethics of process = This focuses on the ethical standards that public officials should
follow in their roles. It includes questions like:
-Should politicians always tell the truth?
-Is it ever acceptable for a leader to break promises for the greater good?
-How should public officials balance their duties with personal morality?
Ethics of policy = This deals with the moral evaluation of laws and policies. It
involves questions such as:
-Are certain policies just or unjust?
-How should resources be distributed fairly in society?
-What are the ethical implications of policies on healthcare, education, and welfare?
Critical Theory
-This branch critiques existing social and political structures, often from a perspective
that seeks to uncover power dynamics and inequalities.
example: Critiquing systemic racism and advocating for social justice and police
reform.
Challenging gender inequalities and advocating for women’s rights, such as
the #MeToo movement.
Comparative Political Philosophy
- This involves comparing political ideas and systems from different cultures and
traditions. It seeks to understand the diversity of political thought and practice around
the world.
example: Democracy in Different Cultures: Comparing how democratic principles are
applied in different countries, such as the differences between Western democracies
and those in Asia.
Examining how different cultures approach human rights, such as the
varying implementations of women’s rights around the world.
3. Philosophy of the Philosophers and Their Application in Daily Life
Marcus Aurelius
While Aurelius did not explicitly outline a comprehensive political theory, his Stoic
philosophy provides valuable insights into the qualities and principles that make for
effective leadership. His emphasis on virtue, duty, emotional regulation, and
rationality continues to be relevant in discussions of political ethics and governance.
Zeno
While Zeno's direct contributions to political philosophy might be limited, his ideas
have had a lasting influence on the development of political thought. His emphasis on
logic, reason, and critical inquiry continues to be relevant today, as we grapple with
complex political issues and seek to build just and equitable [Link] Zeno of
Elea's philosophy in our everyday lives can really help us focus on the present and
think critically about what we believe. By breaking our goals down into smaller steps,
we can avoid feeling overwhelmed and learn to be patient, knowing that real change
takes time. Zeno’s ideas about change remind us that we can adapt to life’s
uncertainties and become more resilient when facing challenges. Plus, having
meaningful conversations and reflecting on what’s real can help us understand
ourselves and the world better.
Plato
Plato's ideas about the ideal state and justice have been influential in Western political
thought for centuries. While his specific proposals may not be entirely practical, they
have stimulated important debates about the nature of good government and the
relationship between the individual and the state.
Application of philosophy in everyday life
Epictetus
Epictetus emphasized focusing on what we can control: our thoughts, actions, and
emotions. He taught that external events and other people's actions are beyond our
control, so we should accept them calmly. By living in accordance with reason and
virtue, we cultivate resilience and inner peace. Detachment from material goods and
seeing hardship as an opportunity for growth are key. Politically, Epictetus promoted
individual responsibility, suggesting that a virtuous society is built on self-discipline
and justice, fostering cooperation over domination.
Seneca
Seneca focused on inner peace and self-reflection. He taught that we should prepare
mentally for life's challenges and embrace "memento mori," the reminder of death, to
prioritize meaningful actions. Simplicity, moderation, and serving others were central
to his philosophy. Politically, Seneca believed rulers should lead with wisdom and
humility, rejecting tyranny and greed. Citizens should live virtuously, contributing to
a just and harmonious society.
Marcus Aurelius
Taught self-control, clear thinking, focusing on what we can control, finding inner
peace, being humble, helping others, and seeing challenges as chances to grow
without being swayed by others' opinions.
Zeno
He taught that true happiness comes from living in harmony with nature and reason,
focusing on what we can control, embracing virtues like wisdom and self-control, and
staying calm by managing desires while fulfilling our duties to others.
Plato
Plato was a highly influential ancient Greek philosopher. He is considered one of the
most important figures in Western philosophy and is best known for his dialogues,
which are philosophical discussions between different characters.
BIBLIOGRAPGHY
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