PHIL 1180 - Introduction to Social and Political Philosophy

1. Apply relevant central terms in the formal study of social and political philosophy (e.g., moral agent, justice, rights, liberty, freedom, equality, law, social contract, duty, government, etc.).
2. Explain arguments and principles put forth by diverse social and political philosophers.
3. Compare diverse arguments and principles that ground various theories, principles, and concepts within the field of social and political philosophy.
4. Critique at least one theory discussed in the course, identifying the logical and practical challenges implied by the position with regard to particular issues within social and political philosophy.
5. Analyze current and historical case studies in which the student takes a position that is defended in terms of the theories discussed in class.

1. Introduction to the field of ethics as a form of philosophical argument
2. Identification of moral dilemmas (e.g., conflicting duties or virtues)
3. Distinction between questions of individual and social morality and consideration of ethical theories which connect them to one another
4. Distinction between claims that express empirical facts and claims that express ethical principles/values, such as recognizing how such claims distinctly impact moral reasoning
5. Introduction to fundamental ethical theories and moral reasoning related to social and political philosophy. Examples can include, but need not be limited to, understanding the strengths and challenges pertaining to the following theories: moral relativism, utilitarianism, (e.g., Bentham and Mill), deontology (e.g., Kant), virtue ethics (e.g., Aristotle), and social contract theory (e.g., Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Rawls). This study of ethical theory will include both European and non-European theories (e.g., theories originating in Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern or Pan-African traditions)  
6. The theoretical foundations and criticisms of the following ideas and concepts: justice and social justice, social contract, liberty/freedom, equality/egalitarianism, rights, democracy, our duty to others, and governmental authority 
7. Examination of a few particular cases and issues (either current or historical) and determination of how the theories and concepts discussed in the course can be applied to these issues. Examples of cases and issues can include, but need not be limited to: civil rights and liberties, slavery, colonialization, restitution, subjugation of women, redistribution, welfare, civil disobedience, human rights violations, just/unjust war, discrimination, oppression, democracy, etc.