PHIL 120W: Introduction to Moral Philosophy
Spring Semester 2014 | Day | Burnaby
INSTRUCTOR: Endre Begby, WMC 5653 (ebegby@sfu.ca)
REQUIRED TEXT
- Russ Schafer-Landau: The Ethical Life: Fundamental Readings in Ethics and Moral Problems. Oxford University Press, 2nd edition, 2011. ISBN: 978-0199773527
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Moral philosophy is concerned with how human beings should conduct their lives, and in particular, with how they should conduct themselves with respect to each other. This class will explore both theoretical and practical aspects of moral philosophy. On the theoretical side, we will be asking questions such as, what is the source of moral norms? (e.g., are they grounded in human nature or laid down by authority)?; are moral norms universally valid or merely products of specific cultural traditions? On the practical side, we will be exploring more specific moral problems, such as the source and scope of our obligation to assist those in need; the ethics of abortion and euthanasia; war, terrorism, and torture; and the moral status of non-human animals. Since this is a designated W-class (“writing intensive”), focus will also be given to helping students develop the ability to clearly state and defend their ideas in writing.
All written assignments must be submitted to turnitin.com, which is a plagiarism detection website.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
- First paper (600 words)-10%
- Second paper, plus revision (900 words)-25%
- Third paper (1200 words)-25%
- "Peer review" (i.e. a critical but constructive report on another student's work)-10%
- 3 hour final exam-25%
- Tutorial participation-5%
Prerequisites: Philosophy 120W has no prerequisites and may be applied to the Certificate in Libertal Studies, the W-requirement, and the Breadth/Humanities requirement. The course is a prerequisite for the upper division philosophy courses needed to complete an Ethics Certificate (http://www.sfu.ca/philosophy/undergrad/ethics_certificate.html).