Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - PHIL 221 D100

Ethical Theory (3)

Class Number: 4125

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 2:30–4:20 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:

Ethical theory is the study of the underlying features of actions, persons, and states of affairs that make them moral right or wrong, good or bad. This course canvases some of the most prominent ethical theories in moral philosophy, including the divine command theory, utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue theory. We also spend some time thinking about theories of the good, including hedonism and desire satisfaction theory, and some issues in metaethics.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

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

The primary aim of this course is to develop a working familiarity with the strengths and weaknesses of some of the most important views and theories in ethics. A secondary aim is to begin learning how to write philosophy papers. By the end of the course students should be able to:

  • Understand the most plausible theories in normative ethics and value theory,
  • Identify the common strategies used to argue in support of these theories,
  • Appreciate various objections philosophers have mounted against them,
  • Think critically about these arguments and objections, and
  • Understand the fundamentals of writing a philosophy paper.

Grading

  • In-class group assignments 10%
  • In-class midterm exam 20%
  • In-class writing assignment 20%
  • Final exam 40%
  • Attendance and participation 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

The Fundamentals of Ethics, 6th Edition (2024) by Russ Schafer-Landau
ISBN: 9780190058319

The Ethical Life, 6th Edition (2024) edited by Russ Schafer-Landau
ISBN: 9780190058241

E-copies of both textbooks are available through the SFU Bookstore.

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

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.