Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - PHIL 321 D200

Topics in Moral Philosophy (3)

Moral Worth

Class Number: 5938

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced investigation of central issues and theories in moral philosophy. In any given term, the course may focus on a general theory or concept or concern, for example meta-ethics, utilitarianism, or theories of rights. Sometimes it will focus on a particular problem or problems, such as medical ethics, moral personhood, or free will and moral responsibility. May be repeated for credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Topics in Moral Philosophy: Moral worth

What makes an action worthy of moral praise? Is it enough to do the right thing, or must one act for the right reasons? Can a person who does good for selfish reasons deserve moral credit? How do knowledge, character, emotion, luck, and freedom affect our assessment of moral worth? This course examines one of the central questions in moral philosophy: what distinguishes actions that merely conform to morality from those that possess genuine moral worth? We begin with Aristotle and Kant, and then move on to explore contemporary debates about moral motivation, reasons for action, virtue, moral knowledge, luck, and praise and blame. Along the way, we will consider how character, emotions, and intentions shape our judgments of moral worth.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

PHIL 321 may be applied towards the Concentration in Law and Philosophy and the Certificate in Ethics.
This course may be repeated for credit if the topic is different, but not in the same term.  

The primary aim of this course is to develop a solid foundation in theories of moral worth. By the end of the course students should be able to:

  • Understand various accounts of moral worth,
  • Identify and understand the methods and distinctions used to argue in support of these theories,
  • Appreciate various objections philosophers have mounted against them,
  • Think critically about these arguments and objections, and
  • Write upper-level philosophy papers.

Grading

  • Reading responses 10%
  • Leading breakout sessions 5%
  • In-class writing assignment 20%
  • Final paper: Outline 10%
  • Final paper: Draft 10%
  • Final paper 35%
  • Attendance and participation 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be made freely available through the university library.

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

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


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.