COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course offers an in-depth exploration of ethics, focusing on the reasoning behind right and wrong actions, the systems of values, and the theories of virtue and vice. Students will examine questions of moral motivation and will be encouraged to reflect deeply on ethical dilemmas and challenges. As a result, students’ ability to think critically and rationally about complex ethical issues will be significantly enhanced.

Throughout the course, students will engage with various ethical questions, such as how we should treat others and what characteristics define morally right or wrong actions. This exploration will expand students’ understanding of ethical theories and debates, strengthen their capacity to make informed decisions, and reflect on the significance of moral values in various contexts.

Key Topics

• Understand the Fundamentals of Ethical Theories: Explore the core concepts of right and wrong, virtue and vice, and the foundations of ethical reasoning.
• Explore the Core Principles of Moral Motivation: Delve into what drives individuals to act ethically or unethically.
• Differentiate Between Various Ethical Systems: Compare ethical frameworks, such as utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics.
• Define the Distinct Features of Moral Actions: Identify what makes an action morally right or wrong in various ethical systems.
• Discover How Ethical Theories Apply to Real-World Situations: Learn to apply ethical reasoning to contemporary dilemmas and personal decision-making.
• Identify the Core Concepts of Value Systems: Analyze how personal and societal values influence moral judgments.
• Engage in Deep Reflection on Ethical Dilemmas: Strengthen critical thinking skills by examining complex ethical quandaries and making informed judgments.

CORE LEARNING OUTCOMES (CLOs)

This course corresponds with several USILACS Core Learning Outcomes (CLOs), encompassing fundamental competencies that students are expected to develop throughout their academic progression.

The CLOs Include:

• Adapting to Change: Skillfully adjusting to new circumstances and leveraging opportunities.
• Communication Skills: Articulating ideas and knowledge effectively to diverse audiences across multiple platforms.
• Creativity and Innovation: Formulating original concepts, taking informed risks, and recognizing opportunities in problem-solving and creative expression.
• Critical Thinking: Cultivating comprehensive perspectives on various issues and subjects.
• Ethical Reasoning: Evaluating different perspectives and ethical implications with careful consideration.
• Global Awareness: Appreciating diversity and understanding the interconnectedness of cultures.
• Information Literacy and Research Skills: Proficiently locating, evaluating, analyzing, and applying information to solve problems or build arguments.
• Program Competence: Effectively integrating key concepts, theories, and principles from one’s field of study.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Engaging competently with mathematical and numerical concepts.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with others to achieve collective goals.