PHIL-P 107 PHILOSOPHY AND THE ENVIRONMENT (3 CR.)
Fundamental problems of environmental philosophy. What is "natural"? What obligations do human beings have regarding non-human animals, endangered species, and the natural environment? How might these obligations be grounded? How may competing environmental interests be balanced, especially when they conflict with human economic interests? Readings mainly from contemporary sources.
1 classes found
Fall 2024
| Component | Credits | Class | Status | Time | Day | Facility | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LEC | 3 | 8850 | Closed | 4:45 p.m.–6:00 p.m. | MW | GY 1043 | Norling A |
Regular Academic Session / In Person
LEC 8850: Total Seats: 40 / Available: 0 / Waitlisted: 0
Lecture (LEC)
- COLL (CASE) A&H Breadth of Inq
- IUB GenEd A&H credit
- IUB GenEd A&H credit
- COLL (CASE) A&H Breadth of Inquiry credit
This course introduces students to philosophical questions about the natural environment and our relation to it. We begin with a survey of United States environmental laws with an eye towards identifying philosophically-significant concepts underpinning them. We ask, "What is nature?", "Where, if at all, is nature to be found today", and "What, if anything, is valuable about nature?" On this last question, we analyze the concepts of biodiversity and ecosystem stability, investigating whether either is valuable. We then focus on whether there are specific actions and attitudes we should take towards nature, with a focus on issues of environmental racism, responsibilities to future generations, the intersection of animal rights and environmental ethics, bioengineering, the aesthetic appreciation of nature, and the viability of environmental restoration. In addition to the foregoing, this course aims to improve students' ability to engage critically with complex ideas, interpret others charitably, and express one's own thoughts clearly.
The College of Arts