Introduction to Ethics

In this course, students critically evaluate general moral theories, fundamental moral concepts, and contemporary moral issues such as animal rights and the environment, reproductive technology and abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, and other injustices. Students work to develop and defend their own views on these matters, and to understand and evaluate others' views, by studying and applying moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and ethics of care. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as sound reasoning, autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.