soft authoritarianism

1. Some might argue that in our current age of neoliberal globalization the best form of equality we can hope for is equality of opportunity. Is this argument correct? Are political and outcome equality even possible in North America today? Evaluate the status and prospects of these three forms of equality.
2. Which form of freedom (positive or negative) is more beneficial to democracy? Discuss the main differences between positive freedom and negative freedom. Should those seeking to extend democracy favour one over the other?

3. Giroux in his essay [from week 15] introduces the concept of “soft authoritarianism.” Can soft authoritarian exist within the context of a democracy in Canada or elsewhere? Whether you answer yes or no make sure to define what you mean by democracy. 4. Do capitalist markets help foster progressive democratic practices and values like freedom, rights, participation, inclusion, and equality? If so, what values and practices do they encourage? Or do they merely co-exist with these practices and values within contemporary political democracies? Or further, do they undermine such practices and values?

Your answer can deal with the complexities these issues entail but there should be overall a clear thesis and argument.
Make sure that your answers – the claims and arguments you make – are documented. This means trying to validate your thesis and argument using published sources, logical analysis, or even data if that is relevant and available to you.
Research and Sources: While you are free to use course material, we expect you to use at least 5 high-quality sources beyond those of the readings in the writing of your essay.
Evaluation:
Essays will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
• Presentation or style
o Organization
o Clarity
o Accuracy
• Content or substance
o Clearly articulated thesis
o Coherence of analysis
o Depth of analysis
o Range and quality of sources
o Use of supporting evidence
o Originality
• Technical
o Proper documentation of sources (use of an academic style, such as
APA, MLA, or Chicago, citations and bibliography)
o Paragraph and sentence structure
o spelling