Symphony as Event: The Significance of Political Philosophy.

This article examines the discipline of political philosophy and its relevance in society. While political philosophy is often seen as disconnected from the real world and not widely consulted by non-specialists, it can still provide insights into the attitudes of philosophers and the societal context in which they exist. The article discusses the shift in political philosophy towards a focus on ethics and the normative turn, where ethics is prioritized over other considerations. It compares the approaches of philosophers like John Locke and John Rawls, highlighting the move towards more abstract and theoretical arguments in contemporary political philosophy. The text also explores the potential elitism of political philosophy, but argues that its focus on rights and limitations on government power prevent it from becoming a ruling class. It suggests that political philosophy reflects the preferences of the middle class, who prioritize expertise and abstract justice. Ultimately, the aim of political philosophy is to assert its own status and elevate the role of the referee above that of the participant. [Extracted from the article]