Why should one follow the requirements of morality? What reasons are there for doing one’s duty? Why be moral? This difficult question has fascinated great philosophers both in the past and now. The question is how rationality relates to morality. In this seminar, we will look at a radical answer, that of the contractarian tradition of David Gauthier.
Method of instruction
Seminar
Examination
*Weekly written assignments *Attendance & participation *Final paper
Required reading
*Gauthier, D. (1986). Morals by Agreement. Oxford, Clarendon Press. (ISBN: 0198249926 pbk) *Additional papers and articles, made available during semester
Admission requirements
At least 30 ECTS of philosophy, of which at least one intro into ethics course.
Timetable
see Timetable MA in Philosophy 2008-2009
Registration
Please register for this course via U-twist. See registration procedure
Information
dr. B.J.E. Verbeek (b.verbeek@phil.leidenuniv.nl)
Remarks
Specialisation: Practical Philosophy