Prospectus

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Ethics and Evolution

Course
2009-2010

Description

Evolutionary theory has thrown a whole new light on traditional questions in philosophy, not in the least, on ethics. Some of our most fundamental moral intuitions seem questionable in the light of evolutionary thinking. In this seminar we will look at some of the evidence and arguments from evolutionary theory and reflect on the question what, if anything, this tells us about the status of ethics. Do we have to radically rethink our moral judgments?

Teaching method

Seminar: lecture with discussion

Admission requirements

Some background in philosophy, especially ethics.

Course objectives

Course objectives will be made available on Blackboard at the start of the course.

Required reading

All texts will be made available through Blackboard.

Test method

  • Presence and active participation in class (mandatory)

  • Two essays of app. 3000 words each. Each essay counts for 50% of the final grade

Time table

See: Timetable MA Philosophy

Information

Dr. B.J.E. Verbeek ( b.verbeek@phil.leidenuniv.nl )

Registration

Please register for this course on U-twist. See registration procedure

Blackboard

All additional texts and information through Blackboard.

Remarks

Specialisation: Practical Philosophy