PHL-160-01/02

ETHICS

TTH 2:00-3:20 & 3:30-4:50

Instructor: Dr. Noëlle Vahanian

Office: HUM 307A

Phone: X-6134

Office Hours: TTH 1-1:45 PM & by appointment.

Email: vahanian@lvc.edu

Textbook: Judith A. Boss, editor. Perspectives on Ethics.

Objectives:

Introduction to foundational traditional Western and non-Western ethical theories and perspectives.
Application of theory to case studies.
Appreciation of the complexity of ethical reasoning.
Call for reflection and introspection.

Description:

This course is intended to give you an understanding of the logic and the premises behind traditional ethical theories. Even theories are developed within a specific social, political, historical, and religious context.

Case studies are useful for determining the relevance of ethical theories for real-life issues; they can make these theories more concrete. Case studies also can highlight the limitations of theories; how real-life ethical reasoning is never the application of a formulaic theory.

Most people might say of “evil,” “you recognize it when you see it.” Still, determining right from wrong, and in theory, that is, by sometimes putting the law in perspective, can and does create conflicts of opinion. Ethics is a broad field where reason is asked to meet, justify, or vindicate the values of the heart (which may be religious values) and those of society (which may include the values of a capitalist economy, or a democracy). This course means to underscore the intricacies of ethical deliberation by encouraging you to explore and appreciate positions for their thoughtfulness or argumentation, but regardless of personal opinion.

Grades: 25% Applications, 25% Quizzes, 50% Exams, Participation and Attendance.

Applications: These should be typed. Answer the questions from the assigned application(s) after completing the readings (see the tentative schedule). This work will be collected at random and graded as follows:

Good work: ü+
Satisfactory work: ü
Poor work: ü-
Missed application: F on that assignment. No late applications, please.

Participation and Attendance: Involvement in discussions, proper conduct, compliance to the LVC guidelines for students on academic honesty, and attendance are required.

Poor class participation (not active in class discussion): Final grade drops one letter grade.
Poor attendance: Final grade drops 1 letter grade with 3 unexcused absences, F in the course with 5 or more unexcused absences.

Quizzes: Unannounced, on the readings assigned for that day
Examinations: Examinations will consist of two parts:

Objective questions on readings/lectures
Essay Questions