Summer 2008
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Phil. 148: Reason and Argument (Jennifer Kittlaus, 9:10-10:10 M-F, 117 Fraser Hall)
This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of logical analysis. Logic may be defined as the science of arguments. The chief aim of logic is to provide us with tools to evaluate others’ arguments, as well as methods to help us construct our own arguments. Studying logic is valuable insofar as we encounter arguments everyday. Logic is valuable not only to the attorney, whose job it is to construct a compelling case on behalf of her client, or the physician, whose job it is to consider her patient’s interests and determine the treatment that is best for her patient; logic is also valuable to the voter who wishes to make an informed decision regarding the candidates for whom she will vote and the consumer who is trying to decide which product best suits her needs. The need to think critically pervades practically every facet of our lives. As a result, the study of logic is considered an important part of every student’s education.
Phil. 160: Introduction to Ethics (Pelle D. Danabo, Section TBA)
In this course, we shall cover some fundamental concepts in ethics and how such concepts and principles are applied to the evaluation and solutions of ethical issues ranging from egoism to care ethics and many in between in the moral lives of individuals and societies. We shall start with some basic ethical terms followed by the presentation of various ethical theories without which we may not appreciate the topics, issues, and selected articles covered in the textbook. The structure of the course looks as follows:
1. Introduction to Moral Theory: What Is Ethics?
2. The Moral Point of View
3. Understanding the Diversity of Moral Beliefs: Relativism, Absolutism, and Pluralism
4. The Ethics of Selfishness: Egoism
5. The Ethics of Virtue
6. Utilitarianism
7. The Ethics of Duty (Kantian Ethics)
8. The Ethics of Rights
9. The Ethics of Justice
10. The Ethics of Diversity
11. Introduction to Applied Ethics and Other Recent Developments in Ethics
Text: Lawrence M. Hinman: Ethics: A Pluralistic Approach to Moral Theory (second edition, Wadsworth Publishing, 2007)
Phil. 350: Philosophical Issues in Religion (Matt Waldschlagel, 10:20 - 12:20, M-F, June 3-June 27, 2008, 219 Fraser Hall)
Philosophers seek clarification of important ideas and concepts. They also seek justification for our beliefs. In this course, we will approach the large topic of religion from a philosophical perspective. So, we will be seeking clarification of important religious ideas and concepts. We will also be seeking justification for religious beliefs. The primary purpose of this course is to help you develop your own thinking about religion and religious beliefs. These are some of the many topics and questions we will consider:
- Arguments for and against the existence of God
- What difference, if any, does God's existence or non-existence make?
- The nature and attributes of God, as God is usually conceived of within the Western theological traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
- Does religious belief require evidence?
- Is it rational to believe in God?
- Are religion and science compatible?
- Does morality depend on religion, or is religion irrelevant or even inimical to morality?
This is not a survey course in world religions or in the history of religion. This course does not assume that you have extensive knowledge about the religions of the world. Rather, it is a philosophy course that will examine a number of philosophical concerns that are inspired by rational reflection on religious belief and practice. Regardless of whether you identify yourself as a religious person, an agnostic, or an atheist, this course should be of interest to you, as long as you approach the course with an open mind and are willing to reflect upon and respond to the issues discussed.
The course will be taught through a combination of lecture and discussion, with an emphasis on direct student involvement. No previous coursework in philosophy is required to enroll in this course.
PHIL 365: Moral Issues in the Professions (Larry James, 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm, MTW, June 3-June 27, 2008, Regents Center 220)
Are you in business, pre-law, pre-med, engineering, computer science, social science, or another professional program? If so, Moral Issues in the Professions may fulfill one of your program’s requirements. In this course, we will take a close look at many difficult ethical issues that professionals confront in the workplace. We will look at: confidentiality, consent, deception, responsibility, integrity, and more. We will learn to analyze and think critically about these issues as they arise within the professions.
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