Overview

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the field of environmental ethics. Addresses questions such as what obligations we have to future generations and the natural world, as well as the extent of these obligations. Students who have taken PHIL 333-3 or ENV 399-3 "Special Topics in Environmental Ethics" prior to or in 2011 and students with credit in ENV 320W or PHIL 328-3 may not enroll in this course for further credit. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

The chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently described this moment as a climate crossroads in which the decisions we make now can secure a livable future. Given the urgency of the climate crisis – and the complex, overlapping social and environmental problems stemming from it – how do we navigate that crossroads in a way that is fair, equitable, and just? What are our duties to the planet, to one another, and to future generations?

This class will explore the ethical and moral questions surrounding our treatment of the environment (and just what, exactly, counts as “the environment,” anyway?). Through discussions of readings, case studies, and current events, we’ll unpack moral frameworks, ethical theories, and competing notions of justice.

Since this is a writing class, a major focus throughout the semester will be further developing analytical writing skills. We’ll hone those skills through a variety of assignments, reflections, and in-class exercises.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

* Develop a clearer view of students’ own values and ethical foundations
* Understand key ethical frameworks and apply them to contemporary environmental ethics cases
* Sharpen writing, presenting, and critical thinking skills
* Analyze, evaluate, and construct ethical arguments

Grading

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

REQUIRED READING NOTES: