This course will consist of lecture and discussion on moral theory and the interests of non-human animals. First, we will study three classical ethical theories—Virtue Ethics, Utilitarianism, and Duty Ethics—to explore different answers to the following questions: Where does morality come from? What makes an action right? Why should I be moral? What is moral worth and what sorts of beings have it? Second, we will examine the ethical dimensions of our interactions with non-human animals and the moral questions that are raised in virtue of these interactions. Are non-human animals rational? Do we have moral obligations to them? Is it morally permissible to eat animals? To use animals as a source of entertainment? For research? To cull animals considered invasive or pesky? Finally, we will explore the connections between the animal rights movement and other social justice movements. What is the relationship between animal rights and environmental justice, between animal rights and disability rights, between animal rights and racial justice and justice for women and gender minorities? How do these movements support one another or conflict in their aims?

This course has several learning objectives. First, this course will provide students with an opportunity to develop analytic reading, writing, thinking, and communication skills. In addition to developing these skills, the course is designed to familiarize students with central philosophical ethical theories. Finally, students will learn to think critically about human and non-human animal relationships and the moral dimensions of these relationships.

Course Requirements:

Assignments will consist of short weekly assignments and one final paper. For planning purposes, students will have access to all assignment prompts at the beginning of the semester.

Class Format:

This course will primarily involve synchronous learning with some asynchronous components.