PHIL 111: Introduction to Philosophy

LARKIN: Spring 2003

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DATE: 1-21-03

I. Objectives

A. Learn how to analyze a concept and critically evaluate a definition

B. Critically discuss utilitarian and deontological conceptions of right action

II. Discussion:

A. What if Euthyphro had said that acts are pious because all the gods love them?

B. A General Anti-Authoritarian Argument

III. Lecture:

A. The Goals of Conceptual Analysis

B. Conditional Claims

1. Necessary Conditions

2. Sufficient Conditions

C. Counter-Examples

IV. Discussion:

A. Utilitarian (Consequentialist) Ethics

An act is morally right if and only if it is likely to bring about the greatest amount of happiness for all relevant individuals considered equally.

B. Kantian (Deontological) Ethics

An act is morally right if and only if the maxim involved can be consistently willed to be a universal law.

V. Next Time

A. Topic: The Trial of Socrates

B. Reading: Plato, “Apology”

C. Reading Questions:

1. What are the “older false accusations” against which Socrates defends himself?

2. What does Socrates say has “given rise to the prejudices against” him?

3. How does Socrates defend himself against the charge that he corrupts the youth of Athens?

4. How does Socrates defend himself against the charge that he does not believe in the gods of the state?