WELCOME TO PHIL 465-010
Fall 2020
Value Theory
When Plato said, “To the vulgar pleasure seems to be the good, but to the more refined, understanding.” he was stating part of his value theory: philosophers are better than frat boys. We will examine the central role of value theory in ethics, economics, and social choice. We will compare competing accounts of who and what matters, and consider whether there are rational limits on people’s values.
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 developing an original, final project, we will put all this together and practice making our own clear and substantive contribution to the conversation.
- 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
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.