This is an introductory course in informal logic and critical reasoning. There is a strong emphasis on written expression and the application of critical thinking skills in a series of composition assignments. This course explores some of the major ethical theories and problems of the past and present. Students learn the application of concepts of good and evil, right and wrong, to current ethical and social issues, and to the processes of formulating and making actual ethics-based decisions. Utilitarian and rule-based systems are studied and through critical reasoning are applied in analyses, discussions, and in written assignments.
Emphasis is on the real, the practical, and the applicable in everyday ethical situations.