Spring 2016
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Stephen Campbell
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 011, Tuesday & Friday 9:30 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.
Section 012, Tuesday & Friday 11:00 a.m. -12:20 a.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Seeks to help the student think rationally and critically about basic questions concerning the meaning of
human life and our place in society and the universe, and to recognize the bearing of these questions on
contemporary social issues. Exposes students to both classical and contemporary philosophical
problems. Among problems for possible discussion are the existence of God and the rationality of faith,
free will and determinism, human nature and happiness, appearance and reality, the nature of
knowledge, the demands of morality, and the meaning of life.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Chong Choe-Smith
TO BE OFFERED: Section 002, Monday & Wednesday 9:30 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course takes a topical approach to philosophy by considering several foundational problems in
epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics. During the course of the semester, we will cover a wide variety
of topics including the definition of knowledge, the mind-body problem, the problem of evil, freedom
and moral responsibility, and several problems in ethics. We will consider important contributions to the
literature on these topics from historical and contemporary philosophers. The general objective of this
course is to introduce students to philosophy, philosophical methods and tools, important philosophers
and their views, and also help students to develop skills to think critically and independently about the
big questions of life.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Robert Frederick
TO BE OFFERED: Section 016, Tuesday & Thursday 3:30 p.m. – 4:50 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Jacqueline Gately
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 015, Tuesday & Thursday 3:30 p.m. –4:50 p.m.
Section 018, Tuesday & Thursday 5:00p.m. – 6:20 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course explores issues that philosophers have traditionally considered, including morality,
reality, and knowledge. We will begin by discussing what philosophy is and why people engage in
it. Through an overview of the history of Western philosophy, with an emphasis on the
development of ethics, we will examine three philosophical time periods (ancient, modern, and
contemporary) by studying some of the major figures in each period. This will allow students to
examine the similarities and differences of the philosophers’ arguments, as well as their own, on a
variety of topics through in-class discussions as well as written work.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: James B. Hart
TO BE OFFERED: Section 001, Monday & Wednesday 8:00 a.m. -9:20 a.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course to focus solely on moral issues. Part will be an overview of the classic ethical theories of
Western philosophy (Kant, Mill, Aristotle, Hobbes, etc.). Part will be an application of these theories to
contemporary moral questions (immigration, abortion, torture, among others). There will be significant
student presentations and interaction with special emphasis on critical reading and writing techniques.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Ranjoo Herr
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 008, Monday & Wednesday 5:00 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The aim of the course is to help students learn to think critically, reflectively, and deeply with
an open-mind. The ability to think critically, reflectively and deeply with an open-mind is highly valued
by the leaders of the world, whether in academia, politics, law, or business. In order to be recognized
as a leader in business or elsewhere, you must engage in critical thinking and understand the bigger
picture. This is what the philosophical method enables you to do.
Bentley University emphasizes ethics and social responsibility of business people. Therefore,
this course is designed to help students learn and practice the philosophical method by focusing on
moral philosophy, which examines fundamentals of ethics and social responsibility. Topics examined
are: First, questions about egoism and relativism; second, two major ethical theories of utilitarianism
and deontology; and third, the application of the two theories to highly debated contemporary ethical
issues (see the schedule below).
Classes are discussion-oriented following the philosophical method. You are expected to
have done the reading for each class, so that class discussions are informed and focused. To ensure
that everyone is prepared for each class, you are required to complete pre-class assignments before
the start of class. Preparing yourself for class in this way requires self-discipline, hard work,
persistence, and perseverance. The hope is that completing the coursework successfully will help you
develop these essential character traits for success in life. It is up to you! 
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By meeting the requirements of this course, you will learn how to:
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(Spring2016)
evaluate whether an argument makes sense
sharpen your ability to diagnose and troubleshoot flaws in an argument
make your point succinctly and precisely by formulating your own argument
construct as strong an argument for your position as possible
think/write logically
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Jesse Hughes
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 013, Tuesday & Friday 11:00 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.
Section 014, Tuesday & Friday 12:30 p.m. -1:50 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This is a broad introduction to philosophy, in which we will touch on many traditional subjects. We will
begin with a section on epistemology (What stuff can we know and how?) and metaphysics (What stuff
is there anyway?). This section includes an introduction to philosophy of self (Did yesterday really
happen?) and artificial intelligence (Can a machine think?). Our second section is an overview of classical
ethical theories (What should one do? Why should one try to be good anyway?), and our final section
discusses certain problems of applied ethics (Is abortion morally acceptable? What moral duties apply in
a state of war?)
(Fall 2015)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Carolyn Magid
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 003, Monday & Thursday 11:00 a.m. 12:20 p.m.
Section 005, Monday & Thursday 12:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
In this course we will study important philosophical theories which answer moral questions about how
people should live and how societies should function. We will explore the theories in the context of their
application to difficult moral choices about obligation to others, killing and violence, global warming and
inequality and difference. We will also use what we have learned about moral theory and reasoning,
supplemented by new reading and additional research on line, to prepare and hold debates about
several very controversial contemporary moral issues.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Stephen Martin
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 017, Tuesday & Thursday 5:00-p.m.—6:20 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
What should I do? How should I live? Who am I supposed to be? These questions are ethical questions.
Philosophical ethics is the at- tempt to figure out whether and how they ought to be answered, and, if
they have answers to them, just what those answers are. Be- cause these questions are such important
questions, theirs is not the province of philosophy alone. Rather, they figure prominently in all areas of
art and literature as well. In this course, we shall approach them as they appear in both the works of
great philosophers and contemporary filmmakers alike.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Jason L. Megill
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 7, Mon & Wed 3:30 p.m. – 4:50 p.m.
Section 9, Mon & Wed 5:00 p.m. – 6:20 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
We will study several of the core areas of Philosophy, though there will be a special emphasis on Ethics.
We start by examining most of the major ethical theories: Utilitarianism, Kant, Aristotle, Ethical
Subjectivism, and Divine Command Theory. We then consider a number of topics in Applied Ethics,
including abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, genetic enhancement, and just war theory. We will
also cover some topics in Political philosophy (e.g., how should wealth be distributed), Philosophy of
Religion (e.g., does God exist), and Metaphysics and Philosophy of Mind (e.g., could a machine think?).
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Jessica Payson
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 4, Mon & Thur 11:00 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Section 6, Mon & Thur 12:30 p.m.-1:50 p.m.
Section H01, Mon & Thur 2:00p.m.-3:20 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
PH 101: Seeks to help the student think rationally and critically about basic questions concerning the
meaning of human life and our place in society and the universe, and to recognize the bearing of these
questions on contemporary social issues. Exposes students to both classical and contemporary
philosophical problems. Among problems for possible discussion are the existence of God, freedom and
responsibility, human nature and happiness, appearance and reality, ethics and the environment,
abortion and individual rights, affirmative action and equality, love and sex, and law and authority.
(Spring 2016)
PH 101: PROBLEMS OF PHILOSOPHY
INSTRUCTOR: Linda Paglierani
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 010, Tuesday & Friday 8:00a.m. – 9:20 a.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
To examine, analyze, consider, compare ways of philosophical thinking. To study and apply the kinds of
thinking that are associated with the various branches of philosophy. To apply systematic philosophical
approaches to issues of everyday life, such as in situations of Ethics, or matters of justice, freedom, and
responsibility, as well as in areas of Epistemology, Metaphysics, Perception, and Aesthetics, for example.
We will consider cases that challenge students to question the sufficient and necessary choices people
make to live a life worth living, with meaning and purpose. We will consider the relationship of the
individual to the group, society, culture, history, and in context of world view. We will study these topics
in relation to the themes that are part of the history of ideas in Philosophy, to include Nature/Nurture
theory, and the variations of influence that challenge and develop character and free will. Students will
have a cross section of interdisciplinary readings in the history of ideas in this discipline and in its
thematic context to explore ideas and ways of thinking related to our study. Additional materials and
forums for discussion on local to world events and issues will invite students to explore perspectives,
applications, implications, and consequences. All topics will have direct application to Bentley students.
(Spring 2016)
PH 131: BUSINESS ETHICS: PHILOSOPHY OF WORK
INSTRUCTOR: Carolyn Magid
TO BE OFFERED:
Section 001, Wednesday 11:00 a.m. - 1:50 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The world of work has changed and is changing dramatically for U.S. workers, as well as workers around
the world. Trends including technological change, outsourcing, off-shoring, expansion of free trade,
global recession, and increased diversification of the U.S. workforce raise major moral questions about
work.
PH131: Philosophy of Work looks at work from the perspective of workers. You can expect to work at a
number of different jobs over the course of your lifetime. How should employers and the government
address moral issues you and other workers will deal with at work? What do workers have a right to
expect?
Studying current developments and moral theory, we will explore and try to answer moral questions
about: fair pay and working conditions, the impact of technological change and other trends associated
with globalization (including job change and job loss) on the U.S. workforce, managing work and family
life, race and gender discrimination, the value placed on diversity, meaningful work, and more.
Texts (many of which will be on line and accessible through Blackboard) include current cases, a review
of important moral theories, commentary by philosophers, policy analysts and others, and a novel.
Course writing includes case write-ups and essays. Every student will present a case in class. Classes will
explore course topics through discussion, occasional lectures, case presentations, and videos. The
course is designated Diversity Intensive. If you have further questions, please email
cmagid@bentley.edu.
PREREQUISITE: PH 101 OR
INSTRUCTOR'S PERMISSION
(Spring 2016)
PH 133 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS ETHICS
INSTRUCTOR: Jessica Payson
TO BE OFFERED:
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Tuesday 6:30 p.m.-9:10 p.m.
PH 133: Explores ethical issues confronted by corporations operating in the global marketplace, where
laws, moral standards and cultural customs can vary widely from country to country. Possible issues to
be discussed: bribery, environmental and safety standards, fair wages, sales and marketing, businessgovernment relations, and the role of multinational corporations in developing nations. To assess the
morals of multinational corporations, a number of cases will be analyzed from the perspective of a
variety of ethical frameworks.
(Spring 2016)
PH 134: HEALTHCARE ETHICS
INSTRUCTOR: Stephen Campbell
TO BE OFFERED:
Monday & Wednesday 9:30-10:50
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Examines ethical issues that arise in healthcare. Possible topics include the ethics of medical procedures
such as euthanasia and abortion; the rights and duties of patients and healthcare professionals; the
ethics of preventing disabilities; the use of medical technology to enhance our capacities; and justice in
the distribution of healthcare resources.
Prerequisite(s): PH 101
Note: Not open to students that took PH 135 Medical Ethics
(Spring2016)
PH 251: ETHICS
INSTRUCTOR:
Robert Frederick
TO BE OFFERED :
Section 001, Monday & Thursday 12:30 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Ethics is the study of moral choices; some are obvious, others more problematic to us as
individuals and/or as a society. When presented with a serious ethical dilemma, we begin to
recognize the importance of studying ethics: it helps us to find direction and to act with
conviction, and it allows us to appreciate the choices we have to make by sharpening our moral
awareness. In an attempt to understand how our lives have taken shape and what they may
look like in the future, we will examine our values and how they impact the choices we make.
To begin do this we will study a variety of ethical viewpoints and attempt to apply them to
ethical issues in the contemporary world.
Prerequisite: PH101 or instructor's permission
(Fall 2015)
PH315: CONFUCIANISM, BUDDHISM, AND DAOISM: PHILOSOPHIES OF EAST ASIA
INSTRUCTOR:
Ranjoo Herr
TO BE OFFERED :
Section 001, Monday & Wednesday 3:30 p.m. – 4:50 p.m.
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
East Asian countries of China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan have become major
economic power houses of the contemporary world, with China having overtaken the United
States as the world’s largest economy in 2015. Many experts have argued that East Asia’s
economic success is in large part due to its traditional philosophical perspectives, specifically
Confucianism. If this assessment is correct, it would be very important for Bentley students,
who desire to attain a global perspective and do business with their counterparts in East Asia,
to understand the philosophical perspectives of East Asia. This course provides just such an
opportunity for Bentley students to learn about the philosophical and cultural traditions of
East Asia. It explores three major philosophical perspectives of East Asia—Confucianism,
Buddhism, and Daoism—by reading and interpreting their classic philosophical texts. It also
examines how these philosophies continue to influence and shape East Asian countries by
viewing documentary and narrative films.
(Spring2016)