The second semester continues with a study of contemporary themes and concerns both in Western and nonWestern thought. In addition to providing practice in the skills of analysis, argument and critical and reflective interpretation, the course aims to familiarize students with the intellectual ideal of illuminating the new by understanding the old. The study of the basic methods of clear thinking and argument, including both deductive and inductive reasoning.
Special emphasis is placed on critical analysis of arguments.
The study of the principles and values that underlie the relations of responsibility, respect and concern. Theories studied include virtue ethics, Kantian ethics, utilitarianism and the Christian perspective. The analysis of contemporary social issues such as abortion, capital punishment, affirmative action, multiculturalism, the environment, euthanasia and world hunger from a moral and philosophical perspective. Recommended for biology majors interested in exploring the philosophical implications of the scientific enterprise. The course examines how current technological achievements profoundly change our social, cultural and moral life, and how they create moral dilemmas for our society at the same time.