PHL 203 Ethics

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Uses reflective and critical reading, thinking, writing, and discussion to explore the methods and ideas of ancient and modern Ethics. Includes explanations and illustrations of the central theories of Ethics as well as close scrutiny of standard arguments supporting and critiquing these theories. Applies ethical theories to contemporary moral problems and personal dilemmas.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Recommended: Placement into WR 121Z (or higher), or completion of WR 115 (or higher) with a grade of C or better.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain the most important ancient and modern theories of Ethics and the standard arguments used to support them.
Assess the strengths and weakness of ethical theories in light of how they address actual moral dilemmas.
Articulate a personal ethical perspective on how one should live well.
Use Ethics to better understand and resolve personal, social, and political problems.
Use various forms of written and verbal discussion to articulate understanding and practical application of various aspects of Ethics.
Write coherent essays using textual support, documentation (where applicable), and standard grammar/mechanics.
Thoughtfully and respectfully engage those who hold different ethical values.

Content Outline

Introduction to Ethics
- Ethics defined
  - Values
  - Morals
- Stories
  - Experiences
  - Emotions
- Conduct
  - Engage diverse perspectives with thoughtfulness and respect
  - Learn in disagreement
  - Openness to new insights and understanding creates better learning
Dealing with Moral Differences
- Subjectivism
- Relativism
- Soft universalism
- Hard universalism/absolutism
Egoism
- Psychological egoism (e.g. Glaucon, Hobbes)
- Ethical egoism (e.g. Rand, Dawkins)
Utilitarianism
- Bentham and Hedonism
- Sheer numbers problem, animal welfare, torture
- Mill’s higher and lower pleasures, harm principle
- Act and rule utilitarianism
Deontology
- Kant’s good will
- Kant’s categorical imperative
- Kant’s kingdom of ends
Personhood, Rights, and Justice
- Human being defined
- Personhood and rights
- Genetic engineering, stem cell research, cloning
- Rights and equality (e.g. Rawls, MLK Jr.)
Virtue Ethics
- Socrates’ values and example
- Plato on the virtuous person and the good life
- Aristotle on virtuous conduct
- Courage, physical and moral (e.g. Hallie)
Contemporary Issues-Ethics Applied
- Abortion
- Euthanasia
- Media ethics
- War and just war theory
- Animal rights
- Capital punishment
- Ethics and gender