| How should we live? This is one of the most important, least understood, and most contested questions human beings must address. Many have spent scholarly energy seeking answers to question like “how do we live” through scientific inquiry and empirical study. Philosophical ethics is uniquely placed to advance responses to the larger normative and imperative question of right and wrong and of good and bad. In this course, we will critically evaluate some of the myriad responses that have been offered to this important philosophical query by engaging the work and writings of philosophers both ancient and modern – questions concerning the nature of the good. The ethical theories we’ll outline will give us the foundation to frame debates and responses to important contemporary ethical problems. Your work in this course may very well help you become reasonable thinkers, able citizens, and – dare I say it – better people. |