PHIL 101

An introduction to both ethical theory and applied ethics. The emphasis of the course varies among instructors, with all focusing to some extent on improving moral reasoning. The course covers the following issues: (a) What makes right actions right and wrong actions wrong? Utilitarianism, Kantianism, and virtue ethics are usually considered. (b) Why should I be moral, rather than merely self-interested? (c) In what sense, if any, are moral values objective? (d) If any of the following are wrong, what makes them wrong: private wealth, deception, capital punishment, euthanasia, assisted-suicide, meat-eating, abortion, cloning, polygamy, etc? (e) What are our moral obligations to children, the frail and elderly, future generations, and other species? Section information text: <strong>Course Description: </strong>An introduction to both ethical theory and applied ethics. The emphasis of the course varies among instructors, with all focusing to some extent on improving moral reasoning. The course covers the following issues: (a) What makes right actions right and wrong actions wrong? Utilitarianism, Kantianism, and virtue ethics are usually considered. (b) Why should I be moral, rather than merely self-interested? (c) In what sense, if any, are moral values objective? (d) If any of the following are wrong, what makes them wrong: private wealth, deception, capital punishment, euthanasia, assisted-suicide, meat-eating, abortion, cloning, polygamy, etc? (e) What are our moral obligations to children, the frail and elderly, future generations, and other species?<br/><strong>Note: </strong>PHIL 101 is an approved Self and Society course for Cap Core requirements.<br/><strong>Reg Notes: </strong>none<br/><strong>