Course Description
This is a variable topic, debate-oriented course, with different themes in different semesters. Please contact the department, or see Banner, for information about a specific semester. Themes may include philosophical perspectives on: contemporary moral issues, ethical theory, topics in religion, political theory, the nature of free will, and so on. Prerequisite: None; Note: May be repeated twice for credit when topic varies.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- Identify the theoretical underpinnings of positions on concrete moral issues on the basis of the justificatory reasons given for those positions.
- Apply abstract moral principles to particular situations to come to a conclusion regarding what ought to be done.
- Critically compare the strengths and weaknesses of competing moral theories, both generally as well as in a specific context.
- Demonstrate appropriate and ethical oral communication messages for given contexts and communicators to increase knowledge, foster understanding, and/or promote change. (MAC SLO 1)
- Analyze and evaluate messages according to context, audience, intent, and other principles of oral communication, to contribute to the ongoing development of knowledge and relationships. (MAC SLO 2)
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Attendance/Participation | 20% |
| Homework Assignments | 20% |
| Exams | 20% |
| Main Presentation | 20% |
| Peer Response | 20% |
Grading Scale
| Percentage | Letter Grade |
|---|---|
| 92% and above | A |
| 90-91% | A- |
| 88-89% | B+ |
| 82-87% | B |
| 80-81% | B- |
| 78-79% | C+ |
| 72-77% | C |
| 70-71% | C- |
| 68-69% | D+ |
| 62-67% | D |
| 60-61% | D- |
| 59% and below | F |
Attendance/Participation:
Students are expected to be not only present, but prepared to substantively participate at every class meeting. Students are permitted up to three “free” no-questions-asked absences before those absences begin to affect their final grade. Absence, conspicuously late arrival/early departure, or conspicuous unpreparedness are all justifiable reasons for losing full or partial Attendance/Participation credit for a given class meeting.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
No course materials are required.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.