Philosophy 205 - Ethics

Ethics

Spring
2021
01
4.00
Katia Vavova
M 09:45AM-11:00AM;TTH 09:30AM-11:15AM;WF 10:15AM-11:15AM
Mount Holyoke College
113679
evavova@mtholyoke.edu
What is the right thing to do? What makes a life good? The purpose of this course is to critically examine some of the key theoretical approaches to answering these questions. We will focus on three main ethical theories: (1) virtue ethics, which focuses on the importance of good character; (2) utilitarianism, which focuses on promoting the happiness of all; and (3) Kantianism, which focuses on an agent's reasons for acting. We will also discuss contemporary alternatives to and criticisms of these traditions. Finally, we will evaluate some arguments for and against the objectivity and universality of ethics. Is there such a thing as moral truth?
Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.