An introduction to ethical philosophy through an in-depth study of a selected topic or set of related topics in ethics. Recent topics have included civil disobedience, individualism and community, abortion, feminist ethics, and killing. An advanced seminar on a single figure, topic, or movement. Oral participation is as important as written work. Feminism, Ecology and Peace Students become acquainted with major writings on feminism, ecological ethics, and peace and consider the ways in which they relate to each other and to our project of ending exploitation and building a just, harmonious world.
Feminist ethics is studied, as is the effects of colonialism on women and the environment.
Readings might include works by Homer, Sappho, Aeschylus, Euripides, and Aristotle as well as readings from secondary sources. Uses historical and developmental frameworks in order to explore how psychology has contributed to the meaning of gender in the lives of women and girls. An exploration of the role of gender in the study of biology. Topics include a critique of the scientific method, objectivity versus subjectivity in methodology, the social structure of science, the history of women's participation in science, women as the object of scientific research and technological innovation, and alternatives in science and technology proposed and practiced by women. Readings are intended to provide a diversity of perspectives and to provoke discussion.