- Utilitarianism: This is a philosophical theory that holds that the right action is the one that maximizes overall utility or happiness, with utility being defined as the net balance of pleasure over pain. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as ethics and political philosophy, which focus on the nature of moral goodness and the principles of justice.
- Deontology: This is a philosophical theory that holds that the right action is the one that is in accordance with certain moral rules or duties, regardless of its consequences. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as ethics and moral philosophy, which focus on the nature of moral obligations and the foundations of moral reasoning.
- Kantianism: This is a philosophical theory based on the work of Immanuel Kant, which holds that the moral worth of an action is determined by its conformity to the moral law, which is derived from the concept of pure practical reason. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as ethics and moral philosophy, which focus on the nature of moral goodness and the principles of moral reasoning.
- Libertarianism: This is a philosophical theory that holds that individuals have a natural right to liberty and property, and that the role of the state should be limited to protecting these rights. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as political philosophy and economics, which focus on the nature of government and the principles of market systems.
- Objectivism: This is a philosophical theory based on the work of Ayn Rand, which holds that reality is objective and independent of consciousness, and that the purpose of human life is to achieve happiness through rational self-interest. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as ethics and political philosophy, which focus on the nature of individual rights and the principles of a just society.
- Stoicism: This is a philosophical theory based on the teachings of the ancient Stoics, which holds that the path to happiness and peace of mind is through the cultivation of virtue and the acceptance of one’s fate. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as ethics and philosophy of mind, which focus on the nature of the good life and the principles of mental health and well-being.
are there other theories that hypothetically might belong on this list?
Yes, there are many other philosophical theories that could hypothetically belong on this list, depending on the specific criteria used to select the theories. Some other philosophical theories that might be relevant and potentially commonly taught in US classrooms could include:
- Humanism: This is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the dignity, worth, and potential of human beings, and that seeks to understand and improve the human condition. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as ethics, sociology, and psychology, which focus on the nature of human nature and the principles of human flourishing.
- Existentialism: This is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the individual’s freedom and responsibility, and that explores the meaning and purpose of human existence in a meaningless and absurd world. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as literature, philosophy, and psychology, which focus on the nature of human experience and the principles of human freedom and choice.
- Phenomenology: This is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the study of consciousness and experience, and that seeks to understand the nature of reality by describing and interpreting the structures of consciousness. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as philosophy, psychology, and sociology, which focus on the nature of human perception and the principles of human subjectivity.
- Critical theory: This is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the role of social critique and change, and that seeks to challenge and transform existing power structures and norms. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as sociology, political science, and social justice, which focus on the nature of social inequality and the principles of social change.
- Feminism: This is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the equality of the sexes and the oppression of women, and that seeks to challenge and overcome patriarchal structures and norms. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as women’s studies, sociology, and political science, which focus on the nature of gender inequality and the principles of gender justice.
- Marxism: This is a philosophical theory based on the work of Karl Marx, which emphasizes the role of class struggle and economic exploitation in shaping human history, and that seeks to promote a socialist revolution to overcome capitalism. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as history, economics, and political science, which focus on the nature of capitalist society and the principles of socialist alternatives.
- Postmodernism: This is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the collapse of grand narratives and universal truths, and that seeks to challenge and deconstruct dominant ideologies and cultural narratives. This theory could be relevant to subjects such as literature, philosophy, and cultural studies, which focus on the nature of cultural identities and the principles of cultural diversity and tolerance.