Cognitive Science 0237 - Moral Philosophy

We will explore major texts in moral philosophy in the Western tradition from the fifth century B.C.E. through the nineteenth century. Topics discussed will include: moral reasoning, knowledge, and justification; conceptions of virtue, moral motivation, and the role of the emotions in morality; and issues of justice, rights, and equality. We will also examine several contemporary moral controversies from alternative philosophical perspectives (including the moral status of non-human animals, abortion, and euthanasia, among others). Students will evaluate the assumptions, arguments, and proposals of various moral thinkers, and will develop and support their own views regarding matters of moral theory and practice.

Mind, Brain, and Information Independent Work Writing and Research In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.