Michael J. Sandel (b. 1953) is an American philosopher. He studied at Oxford and has been teaching political philosophy at Harvard for three decades. His lectures on justice have become so popular that tickets for seats in his lecture hall have to be raffled off. In 2009 his lectures were documented for American television and can now be viewed online at www.justiceharvard.org.
Michael J. Sandel Books
- Listen to the Intro00:00
What's What Money Can't Buy about?
The blinks to What Money Can´t Buy (2013) explain how market-driven thinking – like the introduction of incentives and making everything available for a price – has snuck into almost every sphere of our lives. This means we are often suddenly confronted by serious moral concerns when market morality manifests itself in an area where it doesn’t belong.
Who should read What Money Can't Buy?
- Anyone interested in economics, morality and the way they intersect
- Anyone interested in a critique of the market-driven thinking that has gone unquestioned for three decades
- Anyone who has a view on what kind of society they want to live in
- Anyone who believes everything should be for sale
What's The Tyranny of Merit about?
In "The Tyranny of Merit," Michael J. Sandel challenges the belief that success is solely the result of individual merit and hard work. He argues that this mindset has led to a society that values certain skills and professions over others, creating inequality and resentment. Sandel calls for a reevaluation of our meritocratic ideals and a greater emphasis on the common good. This thought-provoking book offers a compelling critique of our current social and economic systems.
Who should read The Tyranny of Merit?
- Individuals who want to critically examine the concept of meritocracy and its impact on society
- Those who are interested in the ethical implications of achievements and success
- Readers who seek a thought-provoking analysis of the relationship between merit and inequality
What's Liberalism and the Limits of Justice about?
Liberalism and the Limits of Justice by Michael J. Sandel challenges the traditional liberal idea that justice can be achieved through neutrality and individual rights alone. Sandel argues that a just society requires a more substantive conception of the good life and that liberalism, in its current form, fails to address important moral and ethical questions. Through thought-provoking analysis, the book offers a compelling critique of liberal political theory and explores alternative approaches to justice and the common good.
Who should read Liberalism and the Limits of Justice?
- Individuals interested in exploring the philosophical foundations of liberalism
- Readers who want to critically examine the limitations of justice in a liberal society
- Those who seek a deeper understanding of the ethical dilemmas and trade-offs inherent in liberal political theory
What's Encountering China about?
Encountering China by Michael J. Sandel delves into the complex relationship between China and the Western world. Through thought-provoking analysis and real-life examples, the book explores the cultural, political, and ethical challenges that arise as these two global powers interact. It offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics shaping our interconnected world.
Who should read Encountering China?
Individuals interested in understanding the cultural and philosophical perspectives of China
Readers who want to explore the ethical and moral challenges in a rapidly changing society
Those who seek to broaden their worldview and engage in thought-provoking discussions about justice and public life
