Aims

This class will examine the non-identity problem; one of the great controversies (or, rather, cluster of controversies) in contemporary ethical theory. This is a classic philosophical problem; easy to state and pretty obvious one you point it out, but devilishly difficult to address and profoundly challenging to deeply held beliefs.

By taking the class, you will...

• Become familiar with many of the seminal papers that have shaped debate on the non-identity problem
• Learn about different attempts to address the problem
• Develop and state your own view on the ethical issues raised
• Develop the skills of argumentation needed to defend your own view

Strategy

The best way to get good at ethics, or any other part of philosophy, is to do it - by discussing and writing about one's own views. Although this is a writing intensive class, the foundation for learning will be in careful reading of class materials and active participation in class discussions. This will be the forum for trying out ideas and arguments in preparation for your own written work.

In order to develop philosophical writing skills, you will prepare a final paper through three different drafts. The first draft will focus on a clear and accurate exegesis of a published paper on the non-identity problem. The second draft will explain and defend your own view on an issue raised in the first draft. The third draft will develop the second draft into a polished paper by responding to comments. Guidance will be available throughout this process.