The Great Books of the Western Canon, organized by Mortimer J. Adler in the Syntopicon, span 102 enduring ideas—ranging from Truth, Beauty, and Justice to Democracy, Love, and God. These categories trace the intellectual tradition of the West, connecting philosophy, literature, history, science, and theology. Together, they map the recurring questions and principles shaping human thought across centuries.
Justice as Impartial Judgment: A Cornerstone of Civilized Society Summary: True Justice is not merely the application of codified rules, nor is it the subjective whim of power. Rather, it is fundamentally an exercise in impartial judgment, demanding a dispassionate and objective assessment of facts and principles, free from personal...
The Enduring Tension: Universal Principles and Particular Cases in Law The pursuit of justice within any legal system hinges on a profound philosophical relation—the intricate dance between the universal and particular. At its core, law strives for consistency, impartiality, and the application of general principles that transcend individual circumstances....
The Ethical Dilemma of Slavery: A Philosophical Scrutiny The institution of slavery, in all its historical manifestations, presents one of humanity's most profound and enduring ethical dilemmas. It forces us to confront fundamental questions about justice, liberty, and the very definition of Man. This article delves into the...
The Scales of Consequence: Grappling with Just Punishment The concept of just punishment is one of philosophy's most enduring and complex dilemmas, sitting at the very heart of how societies define justice, uphold Law, and respond to acts deemed Good and Evil. This article delves into the philosophical...
Labor, Liberty, and the Chains of Injustice Summary: The relationship between labor, freedom, and slavery forms a foundational inquiry in philosophy, revealing how the capacity to direct one's work is inextricably linked to human dignity and the very essence of liberty. When labor is freely chosen and engaged,...
The Enduring Principle of Liberty in Law The delicate balance between individual freedom and societal order stands as one of humanity's most persistent philosophical challenges. At the heart of this challenge lies The Principle of Liberty in Law – a foundational concept asserting that the primary purpose of Law...
The Definition of a Just War: Navigating the Ethical Labyrinth of Conflict A Quest for Justice Amidst the Chaos of War The very notion of a "just war" often strikes the modern ear as an oxymoron, a contradiction in terms. How can the devastation, loss, and inherent violence...
The Unyielding Anchor: Exploring the Principle of Liberty in Law The Principle of Liberty in Law stands as a foundational concept in Western jurisprudence, asserting that individual freedom is not merely an aspiration but a core tenet that legal systems must uphold and protect. This principle, deeply embedded within the...