Philosophy 310 - Ethics

What makes one action morally right but another morally wrong? In the first part of the course, we will examine the two most influential answers to this question: Utilitarianism and Kantianism. In the second part of the course, we will discuss a selection of the best essays in contemporary ethics, covering topics such as moral sainthood, moral luck, evolution and morality, and psychological egoism.

Prerequisite: One course in Philosophy or consent of the instructor. Priority is given to Amherst College students.

Limited to 25 students. Spring semester. Professor Shah. (V)

How to handle overenrollment: Priority will be given to majors.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: This is a discussion-based course that requires students to work communally to help each other learn the course material. Emphasis is placed on clarity of thought in writing and speech, as well as engagement with difficult texts.