Moral Theory (PHIL 760.001)

This course will examine moral ideals and different conceptions of ideal human lives. We will examine this subject from three perspectives. First, we will consider the role of ideals in some traditional moral theories. Second, we will examine the uses and criticisms of moral and personal ideals in the work of contemporary moral philosophy. Finally, we will study the nature and defense of a selection of particular ideals, such as autonomy, love, loyalty, and appreciation. The syllabus is likely to include readings from Aristotle, Epictetus, Mill, Kant, Urmson, Murdoch, PF Strawson, Rawls, Williams, Scheffler, Velleman, Scanlon, Wolf, Hill, and RM Adams.

Thomas Hill’s webpage

Douglas MacLean’s webpage