CVSP 203 Final, Fall 1995

CIVILIZATION SEQUENCE 203 FINAL EXAMINATION TWO HOURS JANUARY 25, 1996 PROF. I. NAJJAR Choose one of the following two questions: 1-- The concept of freedom plays a major role in Hobbes', Locke's, Smith's and Marx’ political theories. Explain what that role is according to each author indicating whether any of them believed in a core set of freedoms which cannot be overridden or eliminated by the state under any circumstances. Is it at all possible to build a political society in which there are unconditional or absolute freedoms, from Kant's perspective? Support your answers with adequate reference to the material we studied in the course. 2-- Based on the political texts we examined in this course, do you believe that there are two fundamentally irreconcilable notions of the state: one is liberal and the other socialist? Discuss the basic characteristics of each system in an attempt to see whether they are reconcilable or not, using as a frame of reference the writings of Hobbes, Locke, Smith or Malthus and Marx. Which system would Faust favor and why? answer adequately within the given time supporting your views with examples from the texts we studied. Good Luck