Special Topics In Philosophy (390-0-21)

Instructors

Rowan Mellor

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-430: Mon, Wed 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Many of today's most pressing social problems are not the result of what any one person has done, but are rather the product of many people acting together. But what does it take to perform an action together with others? When am I complicit in a collective wrong? Are groups of people capable of moral agency? How should we theorize the concept of solidarity, and does it have a role to play in combating social injustice? In this course, we will explore how to answer questions like these.

Registration Requirements

Juniors and Seniors only

Learning Objectives

You will develop an understanding of key readings on the concepts of group agency, complicity, and solidarity. You will also apply these ideas to contemporary political issues, such as climate change and corporate agency. Skills of argumentation, close reading, and analysis will be developed through class discussion, presentations, and essay writing.

Evaluation Method

Final paper.

Class Materials (Required)

All class materials will be available on Canvas at NO cost to the student.

No need for students to purchase any texts. Readings will be posted to the Canvas page.

Class Notes

Knowledge of basic concepts in moral and political philosophy will be assumed.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Graduate Students.