This course addresses philosophical issues in public policy through the exploration and discussion of historical and contemporary developments in ethical theory and political philosophy. Drawing on a selection of key topics and issues, students will gain a rigorous understanding of current debates in moral and political theory, while learning to apply this knowledge to public policy issues. The focus of this subject on the relations between philosophy and public policies is based on the perspective that the scientific study of political, social and economic problems is not completely separated from their philosophical analysis. 

The topics to be discussed range from the dilemmas present in medical care treatment, to the identification of priorities in issues related to development policies, social security or climate change. Each of these topics will be analysed by reference to (a) the nature of evidence, objectivity, and choice of theory; and (b) classic themes of political philosophy such as democracy, neutrality, equality, human rights, punishment and just war.