In this course we will examine in depth the two most influential approaches to ethics in the twentieth century: utilitarianism and deontology. According to the first, the moral status of an action depends entirely on its consequences for human happiness. According to the second, the morality of an action has a more complex relation to the intrinsic nature of the action and the interpersonal relationship involved. While both theories have their roots in earlier thinkers-utilitarianism in Bentham and Mill, deontology in Kant-our central focus will be on contemporary developments of these views. After examining the debate between these two rival theories in some depth, we'll turn our attention to recently developed alternatives that attempt to transcend the dichotomies that continue to divide utilitarian and deontological approaches. Readings will include works by the following authors: Bentham, Mill, Feinberg, Nozick, Railton, Brink, Williams, Wolf, Taurek, Rawls, Smart, Scheffler, Nagel, Kant, Kamm, Quinn, Kagan, Ross, Scanlon. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: two seven-page papers, take-home essay exam, attendance and participation. Prerequisites: Philosophy 101. Enrollment limit: 30 (expected: 10-20). Preference given to Philosophy majors and those considering majoring in Philosophy.

Hour: BARRY