Spring Semester, 2008

Philosophy 221--Honors Ethics

Mondays and Wednesdays: 2:00-3:15 pm

308 Comer Hall

Professor: Michael Patton, 300 B Comer Hall                    

Phone Numbers: Office: 665-6434 Home: 665-9569                    

Office Hours

Course description: Catalog Description: An advanced introduction to the process of moral reasoning, with a survey of theories of moral philosophy and their application to selected contemporary moral problems. Discussions will center on classic primary sources..

We will study the works of several historically significant thinkers in this course, starting in ancient Greece with Plato and extending throughout history up to our own century.  By studying their thoughts on the fundamental questions of philosophy and life, we will see the ways in which these questions have been and could be fruitfully explored and answered.  By becoming familiar with these issues, you will begin to see which answers or styles of inquiry appeal most to you.

I think the most interesting and instructive way to address these problems is by asking some of the central questions of philosophy and looking at the answers that have been given to these questions throughout history. 

The successful student will engage the material in such a way as to deepen analytical and critical skills and will come to have a deeper understanding of how human beings attempt to understand the world.  Additionally, the student's rhetorical skills will be enhanced, and an understanding of the unique role of philosophy in intellectual life will be fostered.

The dates and assignments contained in this syllabus are presented as a guide only.  Actual dates and assignments may vary due to unforeseen occurrences.