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Academic Year 2003/2004

Introduction to Ethics
PHIL 212 SP

Two major ancient approaches to right living (Platonic-Stoic and Aristotelian) differ radically over the role of experience and the possibility of transcending social norms, yet both insist that moral life is inextricably bound to individual happiness. Classic modern ideas of moral action (Kantian and utilitarian) face a potential gulf between individual happiness and moral rightness, even while they again disagree about whether morality's basic principles derive from experience. Especially since Marx and Nietzsche, moral theory faces a sustained challenge from social theorists who allege moral norms and judgments serve partisan political ends. Some have sought to repair universal ethics by prioritizing our sensitivity to oppression, yet the move away from simple moral universals has led others to conclude that moral judgments must be matters of personal integrity, worked out individually. Through all these debates we will inquire, does there remain an intelligible common concept of moral wisdom?

MAJOR READINGS

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: HA PHIL    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE

SECTION 01

Instructor(s): Springer,Elise    

Times: .M.W... 01:10PM-02:30PM;     Location: HALL84

Reserved Seats:    (Total Limit: 47)

SR. major: 6   Jr. major: 6

SR. non-major: 7   Jr. non-major: 6   SO: 11   FR: 11

Special Attributes:

Curricular Renewal:    Ethical Reasoning, Writing

Last Updated on MAR-19-2004

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