Ethics & Political Thought

Philosophers and political theorists have articulated visions of ideal societies and successful individuals. One principal objective of this course is to provide students with the analytic skills to assess differing depictions of how social individuals should lead their lives, and will engage students in discussions of competing conceptions of life in the 21st century and on the moral dilemmas unique to our technologically sophisticated multi-cultural environment. We will address such perennial questions as: Is it possible for each of us to achieve objective knowledge of ourselves on our own, or do we need others to attain an honest understanding of our virtues and vices, strengths and weaknesses? Readings required for the course extend from Classical Antiquity to the most recent decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. Course requirements include a number of very short written assignments throughout the term, participation in a classroom debate, and a number of slightly longer papers.