Fall 2017 - PHIL 221 D100
Ethical Theory (3)
Class Number: 3453
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
BurnabySep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby -
Exam Times + Location:
Dec 15, 2017
Fri, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Evan Tiffany
etiffany@sfu.ca
Office: WMC 4627
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Prerequisites:
One of: PHIL 100W (or equivalent), PHIL 120W (or equivalent), PHIL 121, PHIL 144, PHIL 150 or PHIL 151.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
An examination of the major ethical theories, including deontology, consequentialism and virtue ethics. Applications of theses theories and related topics in value theory may also be discussed.
COURSE DETAILS:
The primary goal of this course is to provide a theoretical background and vocabulary that enables philosophical thought about a variety of moral issues. What is the extent of our moral obligations and our moral rights? What constitutes the good or "meaningful'' life? Does morality require impartiality? What is the role of intention in determining the moral status of an action? Is it okay to hold someone morally responsible for something beyond their control?
In the first half of the course, we will read some of my favorite philosophy papers, each of which constitutes article-length attempt to grapple with some of these questions. The goal of this part of the course is to develop one's skill in reading a systematic argument for a specific position, to communicate that argument in writing, and to rationally respond to such arguments. We will then turn, in the second-half of the course, to a more systemic survey of some of the most influential theories of the right and the good in the Western tradition, including: hedonism, utilitarianism, contractarianism, and deontology. The goal here is to familiarize oneself with some of the major traditions in moral philosophy, to understand their logical structure, and to appreciate their role in helping to provide a systematic foundation for answering the kinds of questions we confronted in the first half of the course.
Grading
- Low-stakes assignments 10%
- 2 papers (at 30% each) 60%
- Final exam 30%
REQUIREMENTS:
Written work for this course will be submitted via Turnitin, a third party service licensed for use by SFU. Turnitin is used for originality checking to help detect plagiarism. Students will be required to create an account with Turnitin, and to submit their work via that account, on the terms stipulated in the agreement between the student and Turnitin. This agreement includes the retention of your submitted work as part of the Turnitin database. Any student with a concern about using the Turnitin service may opt to use an anonymous identity in their interactions with Turnitin. Students who do not intend to use Turnitin in the standard manner must notify the instructor at least two weeks in advance of any submission deadline. In particular, it is the responsibility of any student using the anonymous option (i.e. false name and temporary e-mail address created for the purpose) to inform the instructor such that the instructor can match up the anonymous identity with the student.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Various articles available on Canvas.
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