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Department of Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Chair of Moral and Political Philosophy

Moral and Political Philosophy in Theory and Practice

Moral and political philosophy addresses fundamental questions of human life and living together. The fundamental concepts that form the basis of moral and political philosophy include norms and values, rights and responsibilities, equality and justice, and power and autonomy. Philosophy subjects these concepts to conceptual analysis and elucidates their practical relevance, thereby supporting responsible action and the formation of just societies. Given its long history of normative reflection, philosophy can make a significant contribution to ethical orientation and practical decision-making about the challenges of our time.

The team at the Chair of Moral and Political Philosophy at Witten/Herdecke University is dedicated to researching and teaching the theoretical and methodological foundations of practical philosophy, as well as its practical relevance in the context of current challenges in the areas of society and culture, politics and economics, and science and technology. 

Our work is characterised by two key aspirations: firstly, to provide outstanding teaching and research in philosophy; and secondly, to demonstrate the real-world relevance of philosophical analysis. We adopt a global perspective, endorse an interdisciplinary approach, and collaborate closely with excellent national and international partners.

Research

The team has particular research interests in the following areas

  • equality and justice,
  • theories of responsibility,
  • climate justice,
  • economic ethics and business ethics,
  • conflicts and peace,
  • ethics of new and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence,
  • public health ethics, medical ethics,
  • theories of the good life,
  • moral progress,
  • intercultural philosophy and
  • methods of ethical decision-making.

Teaching

In teaching, we offer programmes in the areas of

  • foundations, theories and methods of practical philosophy,
  • classics and current contributions to moral philosophy, political philosophy, cultural and social philosophy as well as
  • current ethical challenges, e.g. in the areas of social justice, health, environment, climate, migration, economy, globalisation, human rights.

 

Our courses are student-centred, problem- and solution-oriented. Intensive discussions in small seminar groups allow our students to develop specialised philosophical knowledge and understand the complex background to current social challenges. They also create room for independent and unconventional thinking, and build a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical action.

The team of the Chair of Moral and Political Philosophy