Limits of the Neoclassical Synthesis - Moral Foundations of Politics

Explore the complexities and ambiguities of Mill's harm principle in this 48-minute lecture from Yale University's "Moral Foundations of Politics" course. Delve into the challenges of calculating and defining harm across various contexts, including prostitution, free trade, same-sex marriage, and statutory rape. Examine landmark cases like the 1950s thalidomide controversy and analyze the evolution of societal perspectives on marital rape and discrimination. Critically assess the Enlightenment ideal of replacing politics with science as Professor Shapiro demonstrates how political choices are inherent in harm calculation. Gain insights into the intricate relationship between moral philosophy, law, and policy-making through thought-provoking discussions and real-world examples.