Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - PHIL 221 D100

Ethical Theory (3)

Class Number: 7187

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 100, 100W, 120, 120W, 121, 144, 150, 151, or 300.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination of the major ethical theories, including deontology, consequentialism and virtue ethics. Applications of these theories and related topics in value theory may also be discussed.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course will explore core issues in moral philosophy, including:

• What is morality?
• Are there objective moral truths?
• What does living a good life involve?
• Can it ever be justifiable to do something harmful in order to bring about a morally good outcome?

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

PHIL 221 is a required course for the Philosophy Major. It may also be applied towards the Certificate in Ethics.

 

Grading

  • Two 4-5 page papers (25% per paper) 50%
  • Three In-Class Quizzes (12% per quiz) 36%
  • Quality of Course Engagement (quality of contributions to class discussion, including in break-out groups + quality of in-class reading worksheets) 14%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be available on Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philcomm@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.