PHIL 429: Advanced Topics in Social and Political Philosophy
PHIL 429-DL1: Moral Psychology
(Spring 2021)
04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M
Online
Section Information for Spring 2021
This special section of Advanced Topics in Social and Political Philosophy will focus on the topic of Moral Psychology.
Human beings are capable of both transcendent kindness and unspeakable cruelty. What is it that shapes the morals of creatures like us and what, if anything, can the scientific study of these things reveal about morality? Moral psychology is the study of moral thought and moral action. Researchers working in this area draw on methods and findings across the cognitive sciences, social and comparative psychology, neuroscience, and analytic philosophy to better understand morality and its role in our everyday lives. In this course, you will learn about some of the discoveries made by moral psychologists about moral judgment and behavior as well as some theories that philosophers have offered in light of these discoveries. These theories attempt to answer questions such as: Are human beings inherently self-interested? Do psychopaths make genuine moral judgments? What is the role of reason and emotion in moral judgment? Can we be responsible for things we are unaware of doing or unable to control? Is it okay to be angry and when is anger a fitting response to injustice?
PHIL 429 DL1 is a distance education section.
Course Information from the University Catalog
Credits: 3
Examines key social and political issues drawing on a range of philosophical thinkers, texts and approaches. Possible topics include: migration and immigration, biopolitics, climate change, health inequity, decision theory, democracy and citizenship, slavery and reparations, mass incarceration, or human rights. Emphasizes the ability to put philosophical concepts and theories to work to address questions and problems of social, political or global significance. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.
