Student Learning Objectives:  The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the philosophical area of ethics; the study of right and wrong human behavior.  The Student Learning Objectives below are consistent with the UNCW University Studies outcomes in "Historical and Philosophical Perspectives."

HPA 1. Students identify and describe various ethical theories, concepts, and issues relevant to global human experience of the past and present.

HPA 2. Students analyze and evaluate ethical positions and arguments critically and systematically.

HPA 3. Students demonstrate an understanding of the differences and similarities of the various ethical theories and positions held by different groups of people.

HPA 4. Students draw on global ethical theories to evaluate contemporary ethical problems and issues, such as world poverty, capital punishment and torture, euthanasia, civil disobedience, just war theory, and legal paternalism.

Course Requirements

1.  Attendance at all classes is expected.  Numerous absences will definitely affect your ability to satisfactorily meet the goals of this course.

2. The use of electronic devices, including cell phones and computers, is not permitted during class. Please leave the classroom is you need to use your phone or computer.

3.  Reading the articles and cases assigned for each class is essential.  The assigned readings form the basis for your understanding and participation in class discussions as well as for Opinion Papers, and exams.  Please bring the assigned text to class every day.

 4. Participation in class discussions is strongly encouraged.  Active engagement with others in the consideration of ethical issues is central to the development of critical analysis skills and a well-supported personal position.

5. You will write five short Opinion Papers (one-two typed pages) during the semester. The first Opinion Paper is on Aristotle, Mill, and Kant. The rest are on topics we will cover in class.  In these papers you will use one ethical theory to support your opinion. The Opinion Paper on Assisted Suicide will also include interviews on this topic. Each Opinion Paper will be worth a maximum of 8 points for a total of 40 possible points. Late Opinion Papers will lose one point for each day late. Papers may not be submitted by e-mail..

6. Paper assignments and other handouts will be available through links on my website.  You are responsible for accessing these to prepare your papers.

7.  There will be three exams during the semester.  The first exam in on Tuesday, February 7.  The second exam is no Tuesday, March 27.  The final exam is on Thursday, May 3 at 3:00 PM. Each exam is worth 20 points.

8. The papers (40 points) and the exams (60 points) will combine to make up your final grade.  The total possible points for the class will be 100.  Total points of 90 will be an "A," total points of 80 will be a "B," and total points of 70 will be a "C."

9.  Make-up exams will not be available, except in extraordinary circumstances.  The exams for this course include terms, concepts, arguments, and essay questions based on the assigned readings, handouts, and class discussions.  Final grades will include “plus” modifiers, when appropriate.  

Text: Morality and Moral Controversies,  John Arthur, Seventh Edition (Eighth Edition)

Required Readings and Discussion Topics  

Thurs. Jan. 12                              Introduction and Syllabus