What is the nature of moral obligation? Are there universal human rights? What makes life worth living? These are examples of the fundamental questions of philosophical ethics that will be studied in this course. As an introduction that does not presuppose any specific background in moral philosophy, you will be expected to read and discuss some classic writings by great philosophers of the past and some contemporary writings. Prerequisites:  One course in philosophy and English 120.

The instructor is happy to answer questions, which may be sent to the following e-mail address: john.lango@hunter.cuny.edu

Required readings:

(1) Jeremy Bentham, An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation. Barnes & Noble. $10.95. ISBN-13: 9781435108752.

(2) Immanuel Kant, Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals, trans. H. J. Paton. HarperCollins. $13.00. ISBN-13: 9780061311598.

(3) R. M. Hare, Moral Thinking: Its Levels, Method and Point. Oxford. $62.50. ISBN 13: 9780198246602.

Additional required readings might be assigned during the course of the semester.