Ethical Leadership

What is the Moral Philosophy Seminar?

Throughout the academic year, the Scholars engage in intensive discussions on political and moral philosophy during which they are encouraged to explore what constitutes leadership and a 'good society'. Guided by leading academics and experts, the Scholars read and talk about a range of key texts – from Aristotle to Mandela – and are encouraged to reflect upon fundamental questions about how individuals engage in civic and public life, including the tensions that can exist between principles such as representation and democracy, equality and justice, personal liberty and collective security.

These seminars provide a space in which Scholars can examine their own attitudes and learn from the reflections and experiences of their fellow Scholars. The initial seminar in Oxford is followed up each term, for scholars to explore these questions and develop their philosophical reasoning.

Article on the Moral Philosophy Seminars by our Academic Fellow Stephen Wright: The Moral Philosophy Seminar remains at the centre of the Leadership Programme. But what is it for?

These seminars fostered an appreciation of the value of bringing in and listening to different points of view and taking into account backgrounds and powers affecting our perspectives while also focusing on looking for solutions and common ground.
Rimma El Joueidi (2022-23),
Ukraine,
MPP,
Hertford College,
Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann-Abraham/ Rausing

The best part of this session was reflecting on the different positions backed by real-life examples from our home countries and personal journeys. This brought to the fore that each of our viewpoints is valid for various reasons. It also proved that the best way to reach a consensus is to understand the reasoning behind a stance. As global leaders with different experiences, this is key to working together.
Annatu Neina Abdulai (2022-23),
Ghana,
MBA,
Mansfield College Kofi Annan Scholar,
Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann-Saïd/Lewis