Applying Philosophy to Problems in Life, Ethics, and Society - Zoom 2

This class will examine the contemporary field of applied philosophy. Applied philosophy employs traditional philosophical methods, such as critical thinking, observation, subjective experience and thought experiments to contentious social, technological and ethical issues. For example, how should a society accommodate values that differ among subcultures and social groups? Do we have an ethical imperative to share our wealth, and if so, how much should we give? Is it ethical to favor friends and family over others in society? Can a person be happier just by thinking differently about experiences? Applied philosophy often draws on empirical data, including experiments, to test the validity of ideas. Course materials will reflect the entry of women and people of color and the gradual recognition of philosophical traditions outside the Western canon. Meets on Zoom for 6 Thursdays, January 22 to February 26, 4 - 5:30 p.m. Registration required; enrollment is limited to 12.