Ethical Theory
How should I live? What is the right thing to do? What does it mean to be a good person? Ethical Theory (PHIL 232) was a systematic, intensive exploration of philosophical ethics that takes on these questions. It aimed to provide philosophy majors and minors with a broad overview of ethical theory, but in a way that enables a deep level of engagement with its central concerns and considerations. The class began by looking at different accounts of well-being and theories of the good. Then they asked about the relationship between goodness and right action and what it means to be a good person. To deepen our understanding of these core ethical concerns, the class also engaged in non-Western traditions and typically under-represented views from minority groups in academic analytical philosophy. This course was taught by Sherry Kao as a Doyle Seminar in fall 2022. Please refer to the current course catalog for an up-to-date description of the course.
