Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2026 - PHIL 321 D100

Topics in Moral Philosophy (3)

Virtue Ethics

Class Number: 3139

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Jun 19, 2026: Wed, Fri, 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: Virtue Ethics

[Note: this course is to be taught concurrently with PHIL 822.]
NOTE: This course is offered as intersession, with 6 hours of class per week.


Course description: An examination of theories of virtue both contemporary and historical.

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.  

 

Grading

  • In-class responses: Short reflection assignments done in class. 40%
  • Final paper pitch: A short overview of ideas for the main thesis and support for the final paper. 20%
  • Final paper: A final essay of about 2500 words 30%
  • Participation: This is based on participation in class discussions. This means doing your part to make lectures and discussions beneficial: things like showing up and listening, asking questions, following up on what others have said, and in general contributing to an atmosphere where people can learn. (Needless to say it also means not being rude, mean, or disruptive!) 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be available electronically via 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

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.