This module presents the Trolley Problem, a thought experiment that raises fundamental ethical questions. Professor Gendler explores:
Students will engage in discussions about the complexities of moral decision-making and the factors influencing their choices.
This introductory lecture by Professor Gendler outlines the goals and structure of the course. Students will be introduced to significant philosophical texts while exploring key themes such as:
Additionally, the lecture highlights the evolving understanding of happiness, morality, and political legitimacy as the course progresses.
This module examines the Ring of Gyges, a thought experiment that questions morality and hypocrisy. Professor Gendler discusses how the story illustrates:
By analyzing this ancient text alongside modern findings, students will reflect on the relationship between ethics and human nature.
This module focuses on the concept of the soul in relation to happiness and human nature. Professor Gendler discusses the multi-part soul, drawing on historical texts, and emphasizes:
Students will explore how these ideas are relevant in contemporary discussions about well-being and personal development.
Continuing from the previous module, this session further explores the concept of the soul, focusing on the interplay between reason, spirit, and appetite. Key discussions include:
Students will engage with classical texts and cognitive science to examine how these concepts manifest in modern contexts.
This module discusses the notion of a well-ordered soul and its connection to happiness and harmony. Professor Gendler emphasizes:
Through this exploration, students will gain a deeper understanding of how to cultivate a fulfilling life.
This module focuses on the disordered soul, addressing concepts like Thémis and PTSD. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will engage with both philosophical texts and modern psychological findings to understand the complexities of the disordered soul.
This module examines the relationship between flourishing and attachment. Professor Gendler highlights:
Students will reflect on how attachment influences their understanding of flourishing and well-being.
This module discusses flourishing and detachment, focusing on the balance between attachment and independence. Professor Gendler explores:
Students will engage with texts and research on how detachment can enhance oneâs quality of life.
This module investigates the concepts of virtue and habit, emphasizing their interconnectedness in ethical living. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will reflect on practical applications of virtue and habit in their daily lives.
This continuation of the previous module further explores virtue and habit, examining how consistency and practice foster moral development. Key topics include:
Students will gain a deeper understanding of how their choices shape their character.
This module addresses weakness of the will and procrastination, exploring the philosophical implications of self-control. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will reflect on their own challenges with self-discipline and explore philosophical solutions.
This module explores utilitarianism and its critiques, delving into the philosophical underpinnings of this ethical framework. Professor Gendler covers:
Students will engage in discussions about the strengths and weaknesses of utilitarianism in moral reasoning.
This module covers deontology, focusing on duty-based ethics and its significance in moral philosophy. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will analyze case studies to understand the application of deontological ethics in real-world scenarios.
This module presents the Trolley Problem, a thought experiment that raises fundamental ethical questions. Professor Gendler explores:
Students will engage in discussions about the complexities of moral decision-making and the factors influencing their choices.
This module focuses on empirically-informed responses to ethical questions, integrating philosophical inquiry with scientific findings. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will reflect on how evidence-based approaches can enhance philosophical debates and moral reasoning.
This module presents various philosophical puzzles that challenge studentsâ understanding of human nature. Professor Gendler explores:
Students will engage in critical discussions, enhancing their analytical skills and philosophical reasoning.
This module investigates punishment, focusing on its philosophical and practical implications. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will critically examine the role of punishment in achieving justice and its impact on human behavior.
This continuation of the previous module further delves into punishment, emphasizing its role in social structures. Professor Gendler covers:
Students will engage in discussions about reforming punitive systems for a more equitable society.
This module examines the concept of Contract and Commonwealth as articulated by Thomas Hobbes. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will analyze how Hobbesâ ideas continue to influence contemporary discussions about governance and personal rights.
This module presents the Prisoner's Dilemma, a critical concept in ethics and game theory. Professor Gendler explores:
Students will engage in practical scenarios to understand the complexities of ethical decision-making.
This module addresses the concept of equality, examining its philosophical underpinnings and societal implications. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will engage critically with texts that explore the complexities of equality in various contexts.
This continuation of the previous module further explores equality, emphasizing its relevance in modern society. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will reflect on their roles in promoting equality within their communities.
This module investigates social structures and their impact on human behavior and morality. Professor Gendler explores:
Students will engage in discussions about the complexities of social interaction and its ethical implications.
This final module addresses censorship and its philosophical implications for society. Professor Gendler discusses:
Students will critically analyze the balance between protecting society and preserving individual freedoms.
This concluding lecture ties up loose ends and reflects on the course's journey. Professor Gendler revisits key themes and concepts, including:
Students will consider how their perspectives have changed and the implications for future philosophical exploration.
This final module serves as a concluding lecture, synthesizing the course's main ideas and themes. Professor Gendler emphasizes:
Students will leave with a comprehensive understanding of the course material and its relevance to contemporary issues.