Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2015 - PHIL 120W E100

Introduction to Moral Philosophy (3)

Class Number: 3736

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 13, 2015: Thu, 5:30–8:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 16, 2015
    Thu, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Vancouver

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the central problems of ethics: for example, the nature of right and wrong, the objectivity or subjectivity of moral judgments, the relativity or absolutism of values, the nature of human freedom and responsibility. The course will also consider general moral views such as utilitarianism, theories of rights and specific obligations, and the ethics of virtue. These theories will be applied to particular moral problems such as abortion, punishment, distributive justice, freedom of speech, and racial and sexual equality. Sometimes the course will also focus on important historical figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Kant and Mill. Open to all students. Students with credit for PHIL 120 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

At some time or another, we're all forced to ask ourselves difficult questions about how best to act. We may even occasionally ask ourselves more ambitious questions like, “How ought I to live?” Moral philosophy attempts to think systematically about what these kinds of questions mean, how we might go about answering them, and how they should impact each of our lives. This course is an introduction to some of the most important issues, thinkers, and concepts of the subject. We will begin the course by reading Plato's discussions of the goals and methods of moral theorizing, Rawls on reflective equilibrium and theory choice in ethics, and Mackie on the truth and objectivity of moral claims. We'll then look at the ethical theories of key moral thinkers who attempt to found ethics and the good on God (Augustine), self-interest (Hobbes), rationality (Kant), good consequences (Mill), and virtuous character (Aristotle). Some further topics to be discussed include Nietzsche's genealogical critique of morality; Marx on alienation, human nature, and the social conditions for meaningful human life; Sartre on acting in bad faith and radical choice; and Adorno on autonomy and the (im)possibility of living a good life in the modern world. As we think through the works of these philosophers we will constantly attempt to apply their thought to concrete moral problems such as abortion; poverty and the distribution of wealth; online privacy and rights; civil disobedience; and the legal enforcement of morality.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The course aims to develop critical skills and the skills of clear expression through classroom discussion and guided writing assignments.

PHIL 120W may be applied towards the Certificate in Liberal Arts, the Writing Requirement, and the Breadth-Humanities Requirement.

Grading

  • Paper 1 (1-2 pages) 15%
  • Paper 2 (3-5 pages) 20%
  • Paper 3 (7-10 pages) 25%
  • Final Exam 25%
  • Participation 15%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All necessary readings will be distributed by the instructor.

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