INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS

Catalog description

Acquaints the student with the major concepts and methods of ethical theory within the Western tradition. Topics will include the nature of evaluation, appraisals of the good life, the source and justification of obligations to others, the possible relativity of ethical codes as they vary from culture to culture, and the connection between individual desires and social restraint. Application of these topics to issues of contemporary importance, such as the moral implications of abortion, sexual freedom of expression, changing social roles, the role of religious belief in moral theory, and the social sources of ethical perspectives.