Cognitive Science 0282 - Neuroethics

Findings from the neurosciences are being brought to bear on questions about human nature, ethics, politics, and the law. Neuroethics is a field of inquiry that investigates the role of neuroscience in our personal, social, and ethical lives. In this class we will look at the ethics of neuroscientific interventions such as cognitive enhancement, mind reading, and lie detection. We will also examine how the neurosciences inform discussions about human nature, personality, and ethics. In addition we will look at the evidential role of neuroscientific evidence and how neuroscience technologies such as fMRI have influenced our thinking about the mind/brain and person. Students will read work in philosophy, neuroscience, and other cognitive sciences, and will write a series of short papers and a longer paper. Students must have taken at least one prior course in philosophy or cognitive science. Preferably students will have some background in both philosophy and another cognitive science. Prerequisite detail: Students must have taken at least one prior course in philosophy or cognitive science. Preferably students will have some background in both philosophy and another cognitive science.

Writing and Research Independent Work 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.