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September 27, 2006
Presentation #2: Gun Control
Some might argue that guns are necessary for self-defense, hunting, and acts of war. In addition, the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms.
Do the benefits of guns outweigh the negatives, such as murder?
If one sells a firearm knowing that the firearm could potentially be used to cause bodily harm to an innocent, is the selling of the gun unethical?
Should there be more gun control established? If so, what types of guns and why?
Posted by seschmid at 05:12 PM | Comments (20)
September 26, 2006
Presentation #1: Torture
One might argue that the need to battle terrorism requires tough interrogation practices of suspected terrorists and even those sympathetic to terrorists.
Does torturing lead to enough good to outweigh the pain caused to the individual(s) involved?
Does torturing anyone lead to any relevant information that wouldn't otherwise be disclosed by the individual?
Should the United States' use of torture continue?
Posted by seschmid at 09:57 AM | Comments (19)
September 19, 2006
Ethics without God
Here's a debatable question: Can one live an ethical and moral life without God? Can one find meaning in one's life without appeal to religion and religious faith?
What do you think? What does Kai think?
Posted by seschmid at 11:50 PM | Comments (7)
September 17, 2006
Questions on Euthyphro and the Divine Command Theory
Euthyphro is a very wise man, or so he thinks. What is Socrates trying to learn from him?
What is Euthyphro's answer?
Substitute for “piety” the word “just” or “good”. And for “impiety” substitute “unjust” or “bad”. In essence, the dialogue is about what makes for the good or bad.
Suppose God were to say it is permissible to torture babies for fun? Would torturing babies for fun really be permissible? How must Euthyphro answer this question?
Posted by seschmid at 09:16 PM | Comments (5)
September 06, 2006
Welcome to Ethics
Welcome to the UW-Rock County Ethics class blog. This blog page is intended for students enrolled in the Fall 2006, PHI 241 Ethics class.
The purpose of this blog page is to provide a place for class announcements, clarifications of lectures and assignments, and discussion of issues raised in and out of class. Students can comment on any of the postings or to any of the comments. This blog page is also where you are to make your pre-presentation responses.
This is a great tool for learning more about and doing philosophy by discussing philosophical issues with your peers. I strongly suggest that you visit this blog page on a regular basis--preferably the day before each class so you are prepared for the next day's lecture and discussion.
Information about the course is available in the class syllabus. Also, access to class notes, philosophy resources, and the class blog page is on the class page.
Posted by seschmid at 12:27 AM | Comments (0)