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UI PUBLIC PHILOSOPHY LECTURE: DEMOCRACY

Dec 3, 2021

03:30 PM - 05:15 PM

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Virtual Event

David Estlund, Brown University

“Why not Epistocracy? Should Wiser Citizens Be in Charge?”

Abstract:
Climate change, unemployment, incarceration, abortion, war. These are just some of the stakes in decisions that are made politically; that is, by voters and their elected representatives. With the stakes so high is it wise to give everyone an equal say in elections whether they are informed or not? Why think that would lead to the best decisions on such momentous matters? This is an ancient challenge to the very idea of democracy: why shouldn't the wiser or more competent have more say in these matters than uninformed or ill-willed others? Why not epistocracy--that is, rule by those wiser on such important matters? This is harder to answer than it might seem. Political philosophers have recently revived these issues and debates, and we'll look at some tough challenges as well as intriguing attempts at answers. Even if you're sure about equal voting, are you sure you know why?

Zoom link: https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/95899763042 Meeting ID: 958 9976 3042

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