Republican Congress, The
Former Secretary of Labor and university professor Robert Reich talks about the abrupt changes that took place when the Republicans gained control of Congress in the 1994 congressional elections. "I had to stop a lot of bad things from happening and...
Liberal and Communitarian Theories of Government
Philosopher Michael Sandel says he recognizes the power of the liberal theory of government, because its neutral position regarding morality is based on a certain conception of freedom. Despite this, however, Professor Sandel believes the liberal po...
What Justifies the Power of the State? (Part One)
Philosopher Michael Sandel discusses two approaches to liberalism, what he terms libertarian liberalism and egalitarian liberalism. He also talks about his own reluctance to be labeled as a communitarian, because he feels the term is often used syno...
What Justifies the State?: Issues That Separate Liberals and Communitarians
Emphasis on the common good places communitarians in direct conflict with liberals who claim the state must leave people free to pursue their own values. Michael Sandel, Ronald Dworkin, and Charles Taylor "debate" the issue in a fascinating exchange...
What Justifies the State?: Communitarian Ideal: Aristotle, The
The liberal view that government must be neutral and allow individuals the right to choose their own values and ends is criticized by communitarians. Communitarians believe in the organic nature of the state and the importance of belonging to a comm...