LE3 .A278 2014

2014

Biro, Andrew

Acadia University

Bachelor of Arts

Honours

Politics

Politics

The objective of this paper is to understand the origins of societal values. The aim of this project is to determine what can be done in order to benefit the human condition within and through the parameters of social influences. I will focus on the works of Rousseau and Foucault, to clarify the values of their time and their hopes for the future. By critically analyzing their psychology, politics, and economics, I will show the primary works of Rousseau and Foucault serve to show that societal bonds are an important tool in the emergence of a humanist common good. They also show that to alleviate human suffering, we need to focus on empathy as a social value. I conclude by outlining the potential practical uses of the social analysis. For example, Social and Emotional Learning can be used as a new educational focus in schools, and the globalized economy can bring people closer together in a way that solidifies the strength of our mutually assured right.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:1116