WELCOME TO PHIL 203
Winter 2025

Ethics

Ethics engages with questions of what living a good life means for us and what it requires of us. A philosophical approach to these fundamental issues is not dogmatic; it is critical and questioning. It is not content to fall in line with received wisdom or traditional authority; it demands a justification for the ethical pronouncements of others, and tries to justify its own claims. Although ethical questions are of the first importance in both personal and public life, they are also among the most confounding and divisive issues that we face. In this class we will consider some influential ethical theories, along with the justifications that have been offered for them and the challenges raised against them. We will also survey a selection of issues of current debate in ethical theory. We’re not aiming for easy or comfortable answers – As Bertrand Russell observed, “While my own opinions as to ethics do not satisfy me, other people’s satisfy me still less.” – We will work to get better at raising clear questions and continuing a productive conversation.

Mark Greene
Mon to Fri. 9 to 10:45am
Zoom (see Canvas@UD for link)
Library & internet resources, no text to purchase
More on Canvas@UD
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.
  • 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.

Contact me

Email @udel.edu:
mkgreene
Winter 2025 office hours on Zoom by appointment.
Spring 2025 office hours: Tue 10 to 11am, Thu 1:10 to 2:10pm – appointment recommended. Already booked / appointment only: Mar 20; May 8 to 15.
Office:
15 Kent Way #107.
There are stairs, so let me know if you need to meet in an accessible location.

Don’t suffer in silence – come and talk to me!

If my regular office hours don’t work for you, just send me an email and we’ll work something out.