Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2014 - PHIL 321 D100

Topics in Moral Philosophy (3)

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 2 – Dec 1, 2014: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 2 – Dec 1, 2014: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 6, 2014
    Sat, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 120W (or equivalent), 220, or ENV 320.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced investigation of central issues and theories in moral philosophy. In any given term, the course may focus on a general theory or concept or concern, for example meta-ethics, utilitarianism, or theories of rights. Sometimes it will focus on a particular problem or problems, such as medical ethics, moral personhood, or free will and moral responsibility. May be repeated for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topics: Moral Issues and Theory


This is an intermediate level survey course in moral issues and theory.  It provides students with a systematic overview of the contemporary philosophical landscape by relying on classic papers written over the last 40 years. The course objective is that you become familiar with some main controversies in moral philosophy.  What is a moral theory?  What methodology do we employ in trying to decide on the correct moral theories and principles? What do the main varieties of moral theory—including consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics—have going for them?  Does utilitarianism constitute an attack on the integrity of individuals?  Is there a clear rationale for deontic constraints?  Should we accept the very idea that a unified theoretical framework illuminates moral controversies, or do “anti-theorists” have a point?  Finally, we will take a look at some puzzles that seem to arise for any moral theory, specifically regarding the nature and existence of moral luck and moral blame.


COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course is excellent preparation for law school.  It also counts towards the Certificate in Ethics (please see department website for more information about the Certificate).

Grading

  • • Participation 5%
  • • Two papers - 30% each (with optional revision) 60%
  • • Final exam 35%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

 Ethical Theory: An Anthology, R. Shafer-Landau (Ed.), second edition.  Blackwell.
ISBN: 978-0470671603

Additional readings.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS