Philosophy 247 - THE ETHICS OF SLAVERY

Slavery is almost universally condemned in the modern world, but it was accepted as an integral part of the moral order for most of history. This course will explore various manifestations of slavery in ancient and modern times - war captives, debt slaves, convicted felons, chattel slaves, sex slaves, child soldiers - and their treatment in the philosophical literature. It will explore the moral arguments for and against European slavery, the African slave trade, American slavery, and contemporary forms of forced labor. Special attention will be given to the role of Christian, Enlightenment, and Utilitarian systems of morality.Enrollment limit of 20 students. (E)