Contemporary Moral Problems

Philosophy is a conversation. As such, being good at philosophy is being able to understand a difficult conversation and contribute something substantive to it. Like riding a bike, you can’t get good at this by reading about it or watching other people do it: you have to have a go yourself. Therefore, the emphasis will be more on developing skills than on learning a body of knowledge:

• By reading influential contributions to the conversation, we will get a sense for the range of views people have, and why they have them.
• Through short written tasks, we will hone our ability to explain tricky ideas accurately, precisely, and clearly.
• By engaging in class discussion, we will get into the habit of critically evaluating views – whether we agree with them or not – and develop and defend our own views on the issues being discussed.
• By solving puzzles in quizzes, we will practice our abilities to understand views precisely, and to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the reasons offered to support those views.

• As a UD faculty member, I am required to notify the UD Title IX coordinator of any report of behavior that may constitute sexual misconduct under UD policy. This mandate applies…
  • To reports that I become aware of in class, in office hours, in advisement meetings, via email, or in any other mode or context.
  • Regardless of whether the report is made directly to me, arises in class or other discussion, or is overheard.
  • Even if the person reported to have experienced prohibited conduct does not want the Title IX coordinator to be notified.
• More information and resources:
  • For more information on the University of Delaware’s Sexual Misconduct Policy, including information on confidential resources, see sites.udel.edu/sexualmisconduct.
  • UD provides 24 hour crisis assistance and victim advocacy and counseling. Contact 302 831-2226, Student Health Services, to get in touch with a sexual offense support advocate.