Skip to main contentSkip to Xpert Chatbot

HarvardX: Justice

4.8 stars
190 ratings

This introduction to moral and political philosophy is one of the most popular courses taught at Harvard College.

12 weeks
3–6 hours per week
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
Free
Optional upgrade available

There is one session available:

594,677 already enrolled! After a course session ends, it will be archivedOpens in a new tab.
Starts Nov 21

About this course

Skip About this course

Taught by lauded Harvard professor Michael Sandel, Justice explores critical analysis of classical and contemporary theories of justice, including discussion of present-day applications. Topics include affirmative action, income distribution, same-sex marriage, the role of markets, debates about rights (human rights and property rights), arguments for and against equality, dilemmas of loyalty in public and private life. The course invites learners to subject their own views on these controversies to critical examination.

The principal readings for the course are texts by Aristotle, John Locke, Immanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill, and John Rawls. Other assigned readings include writings by contemporary philosophers, court cases, and articles about political controversies that raise philosophical questions.

At a glance

  • Language: English
  • Video Transcripts: Deutsch, English, Español, Português, 中文
  • Associated skills:Critical Thinking, Property Rights, Political Philosophy

What you'll learn

Skip What you'll learn
  • The fundamentals of political philosophy
  • An understanding of social justice and criminal justice, and the roles they play in the modern justice system
  • A deeper sense of the philosophy that underlies modern issues such as affirmative action, same sex marriage, and equality
  • The ability to better articulate and evaluate philosophical arguments and ask philosophical questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Skip Frequently Asked Questions

How is the honor code upheld?
HarvardX requires individuals who enroll in its courses on edX to abide by the terms of the edX honor code. HarvardX will take appropriate corrective action in response to violations of the edX honor code, which may include dismissal from the HarvardX course; revocation of any certificates received for the HarvardX course; or other remedies as circumstances warrant. No refunds will be issued in the case of corrective action for such violations. Enrollees who are taking HarvardX courses as part of another program will also be governed by the academic policies of those programs.

How does my participation contribute to research?
By registering as an online learner in our open online courses, you are also participating in research intended to enhance HarvardX's instructional offerings as well as the quality of learning and related sciences worldwide. In the interest of research, you may be exposed to some variations in the course materials. HarvardX does not use learner data for any purpose beyond the University's stated missions of education and research. For purposes of research, we may share information we collect from online learning activities, including Personally Identifiable Information, with researchers beyond Harvard. However, your Personally Identifiable Information will only be shared as permitted by applicable law, will be limited to what is necessary to perform the research, and will be subject to an agreement to protect the data. We may also share with the public or third parties aggregated information that does not personally identify you. Similarly, any research findings will be reported at the aggregate level and will not expose your personal identity.

Please read the edX Privacy Policy for more information regarding the processing, transmission, and use of data collected through the edX platform.

How are non-discrimination and anti-harassment supported?
Harvard University and HarvardX are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy educational and work environment in which no member of the community is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination or harassment in our program. All members of the HarvardX community are expected to abide by Harvard policies on nondiscrimination, including sexual harassment, and the edX Terms of Service. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact harvardx@harvard.edu and/or report your experience through the edX contact form.

Interested in this course for your business or team?

Train your employees in the most in-demand topics, with edX For Business.