Overview

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A discussion of philosophical issues raised by works of Asian philosophy, either historical or contemporary. This may include classical Chinese philosophy, Buddhist philosophy, and/or other Asian philosophical traditions. May be repeated for credit. Students who have taken PHIL 322 in Spring 2020 or Spring 2021, PHIL 333 in Summer 2015, or PHIL 357 in Fall 2020, under the same topic may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topics: Mohist Ethics and Epistemology

Prerequisites: One prior philosophy class, preferably one of PHIL 201, PHIL 203, PHIL 221, PHIL 270, PHIL 302, or any other course numbered PHIL 320 or higher.

Description: The ancient Chinese philosopher Mozi (墨子) lived during the middle of the 5th Century BCE. Mozi was the first philosopher in history known to argue for a consequentialist theory of ethics. The Mozi, written by his followers, contains the ten main doctrines of Mohism, including a defense of “impartiality” over the Confucian doctrine that one should be more partial to those in one’s own family. Instead, Mozi advocated for a state version of consequentialism according to which the benevolent person should promote what is beneficial for all and eliminate what is harmful for all. As far as we know, the Mohists were the first to introduce explicit argumentation into their philosophy in ancient China, including the use of thought experiments and objective standards. This course will involve reading and discussing (translations of) primary and secondary texts about Mohists and their interlocuters.

 

Grading

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

REQUIRED READING NOTES: