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SAN DIEGO MESA COLLEGE
PHIL 109
CRN 92055
SPRING 2013
INSTRUCTOR: PROF. NINA ROSENSTAND
ISSUES IN SOCIAL PHILOSOPHY
SYLLABUS PART 1
Class meets: MW 9:35am-11:00am, MV08
Instructor’s office: MV24 04. Mailbox: to be announced.
Office hours: MTWTh 11:15-12:30, and by appointment
Messages to Instructor: (619) 388-2407
E-mail: nrosenst@sdccd.edu
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course is an introduction to the issues and problems exemplified in the process of meaningful
philosophical activity related to social philosophy. Students in this course survey representative theories
and philosophical reflections related to the notions of social ethics and concepts in social philosophy
such as types of government, the issues of sovereignty, natural law and natural rights, the philosophy of
law, and issues of justice. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research, analysis and
formulation. This course is intended for students pursuing studies in pre-law, and/or political, behavioral
or social sciences, and anyone interested in social philosophy.
COURSE CONTENT
In this course we examine representative theories and historical perspectives on issues of interest in social
philosophy, in particular social contract theories. In addition, we explore current issues in social philosophy such
as human rights, media ethics, and genetic engineering. Furthermore, we will focus on criminal justice ethics and
explore the issue of punishment in general and the death penalty in particular.
Occasionally, works of fiction may be used as illustrations.
COURSE WEBSITE
http://classroom.sdmesa.edu/nrosenst
The course website contains information about the syllabus, assignments, announcements, study guides, extra
credit, and links to other websites. The course website will be updated regularly. In the eventuality of cancelled
meetings or other emergencies, consult the website. You must have computer access in order to take advantage of
the information on the website, but the information will also be available in class and/or through handouts.
Computer access is available at the LRC.
Additional website for further communication about class-relevant issues: http://ninarosenstand.wordpress.com
STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the course the student will be able to:
1. Describe the aims, methods, issues and problems associated with philosophy and philosophical
activity as they are related to notions of social ethics, types of government, the issues of sovereignty,
natural law and natural rights, philosophy of law, and issues of justice.
2. Identify, define and/or describe the philosophical terminology or nomenclature commonly used to
classify positions, methods/approaches associated with notions of problems in social philosophy.
3. Compare and/or explain/contrast basic concepts, principles and theories commonly meaningful to
philosophical inquiry associated with notions of problems in social ethics such as rights,
responsibilities, obligations, and theories of liberty.
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4. Critically evaluate the arguments for theoretical positions related to the notions of social ethics, types
of government, the issues of sovereignty, natural law and natural rights, philosophy of law, and issues of justice,
such as the positions of Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau.
5. Trace the theoretical and practical consequences of concepts, principles, and theories related to the
notions of social ethics, types of government, the issues of sovereignty, natural law and natural rights,
philosophy of law, and issues of justice.
6. Critically evaluate their own beliefs in light of philosophical investigations into theories regarding
social ethics, types of government, the issues of sovereignty, natural law and natural rights, philosophy
of law, and issues of justice.
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS
RESPONSIBILITY TO ADD, DROP, OR WITHDRAW
It is the student’s responsibility to add, drop, or withdraw from classes before the deadlines stated in the
class schedule. Petitions to add, drop or withdraw after the deadline will not be approved without proof
of circumstances beyond the student’s control which made him/her unable to meet the deadline. Lack of
money to pay fees is not considered an extenuating circumstance. Students anticipating difficulty in
paying fees before the add deadline should check with the Financial Aid Office about sources of funds or
other alternatives for which they may be eligible.
SDCCD Policy:
It is the student’s responsibility to drop all classes which he/she is no longer attending.
It is the instructor’s discretion to withdraw a student after the add/drop deadline (Feb.8) due to
excessive absences.
Students who remain enrolled in a class beyond the published withdrawal deadline (Apr. 12), as
stated in the class schedule, will receive an evaluative letter grade in this class.
INSTRUCTOR’S ATTENDANCE POLICY
For your own sake, please note that attendance is critical to teaching and learning. You may fall behind in
acquiring course content and skills if you do not attend class regularly. I realize that situations may
develop which are beyond your control and which may affect your attendance. Therefore, a maximum of
3 absences has been established. This is in compliance with Mesa College policy on attendance. Please
refer to college catalog. Additional absences may influence your final grade. Details will be explained in
class, and on the website.
TARDINESS AND EARLY DEPARTURES
Classes begin at the set hour. In a professional setting, tardiness and early departures are not acceptable.
Tardiness and early departures are also disruptive to the learning environment. Promptness reflects
professional courtesy and is expected.
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR AND STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Students are expected to adhere to the Student Code of Conduct at all times. Students who violate the Student Code
of Conduct may be removed from class by the faculty for the class meeting in which the behavior occurred, and the
next class meeting.
The student code of conduct disciplinary procedure, and student due process (Policy 3100 and Procedures 3100.1
and 3100.2) can be found in the college catalog, student handbook, and at the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs
(Room H-500). The Code of Conduct as listed in College Policies is provided on the final page of the syllabus Part 1.
Charges of misconduct and disciplinary sanctions may be imposed upon students who violate these standards of
conduct or provisions of college regulations.
In addition, as your instructor I have the following expectations of your behavior as a student in this class:
 I expect you to promote a courteous learning atmosphere by exhibiting mutual respect and consideration of
the feelings, ideas, and contributions of others.
 I expect you to demonstrate respect for tools, equipment and supplies in the classroom.
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I expect you to practice consideration for others by maintaining a clean and orderly learning environment.
I expect you to recognize everyone’s opportunity to contribute information in a relevant and meaningful
manner by not monopolizing discussions, interrupting, interjecting irrelevant, illogical or inappropriate
questions or comments.
Regarding food and beverages in the classroom: I do not allow any food or open beverage containers in the
classroom.
Regarding personal electronic equipment in the classroom: As a rule, I do not allow any use of electronic
devices while class is in session. You need my permission to use an electronic device to complete class work.
Also, you need my permission to record class meetings.
I do not allow any reading of material unrelated to class, in hard copy or electronically, while class is in session.
I do not allow activated cell phones in class, unless special permission has been given by me (that means:
SILENCE YOUR PHONES WHILE CLASS IS IN SESSION!).
I do not allow any texting (SMS/text messaging)
Using e-mail to communicate with me about class topics is allowed, and encouraged. I will read and respond
to e-mail in my office hours. Details will be explained in class.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
This class will be conducted in accordance with the college student code of conduct and basic standards of
academic honesty. Cheating, plagiarism or other forms of academic dishonesty are not acceptable and will not be
tolerated. Violations of standards of academic honesty will be reported to the college disciplinary office for
appropriate action.
ACADEMIC ACCOMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Students with disabilities who may need academic accommodations should notify me immediately.
METHODS OF EVALUATION
In class objective / essay examinations which test the student's ability to identify, define, and/or
describe the philosophical terminology or nomenclature commonly used to classify positions, methods
or approaches employed in philosophy and philosophical activity related the study of human nature. In
class essay examinations, written and/or oral presentations, or appropriate group activities, which
measure the student's performance, related to the course objectives. Submission of assignments in a
timely manner. Fulfillment of out of class assignments which are preparatory to the class sessions.
Attentive engagement and/or active participation during class sessions and activities.
Out of class activities such as:
Take home examinations that measure the student's performance related to the course objectives.
Reading and writing assignments as specified in the course syllabus.
Development of position papers/presentations.
Exams: There will be one midterm, two short research papers, one quiz, and a final examination. Before each
examination there will be a review session. Each exam will consist of a set of objective questions and/or
essay questions. The first exam will be worth one third of your semester grade, the quiz and the final will
together be worth one third, and the two papers will comprise the final third, worth max. 50 points each.
The relationship between points and letter grades is traditional: A= 100-90, B=89-80, C=79-70, D=69-60,
F=59-0
Papers: The papers must each be between 2 ½ and 5 pages long. Papers cannot be submitted by e-mail. The
papers must be turned in to your instructor in person. You must keep a copy of your papers for your files.
Late research papers will be accepted during the following class meeting with the following penalty: 3
point will be docked from your grade. Word of advice: While you may use your own judgment in terms of
turning papers in late, beware of losing points! Maintain writer’s discipline!
The final grade in this class may be affected by active class participation and absences, as follows: excessive
absences may affect your grade negatively: you will lose ½ percentage point for each excessive absence
without a written explanation of extenuating circumstances approved by me. In determining the final
grade for borderline cases (Bs at 89.0-89.4, Cs at 79.0-79.4, Ds at 69.0-69.4 and Fs at 59.0-59.4), excellent
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and consistent active class participation will also be taken into consideration. Details will be explained in
class, and on the website
POLICY REGARDING LATE WORK: Late papers will be accepted one meeting after the due date with a penalty of 3
points.
POLICY REGARDING MAKE-UP/EXTRA CREDIT WORK
If you are unable to make it to class for an exam, notify me before the exam, or as soon as possible. A make-up
test can only be scheduled in an emergency, and only if I have been notified before or on the day of the
examination, and will normally have to be completed before the graded exams are returned. Only one make-up
test allowed per student per semester without a doctor’s note or other documentation of an emergency. Under
certain circumstances involving a documented personal emergency a take-home paper may replace an in-class
exam. Details will be explained in class.
Extra-credit work: Details will be explained in class, and on the course website. Extra credit may also be obtained
by attending events listed on the course website, if any. 4 possible percentage points, added to your final grade.
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
The method of instruction will be part lecture, part class discussion, and video presentations if feasible.
Taking notes is important: You may be tested on information written on the board and/or emphasized in class
(mentioned repeatedly by me in reference to examinations.)
TEXTBOOKS
Required reading:
Course Reader Phil 109: Rosenstand,”Moral, Legal and Aesthetic Reasoning,” and “Personhood, Rights and
Justice” from The Moral of the Story 7th edition, 2013, excerpts from Chapters 7 and 13.
Social and Political Philosophy, ed. John Somerville and R.E. Santoni. New York, 1963
Jonathan Wolff, An Introduction to Political Philosophy, Oxford, 2006
Recommended reading:
Rosenstand, The Human Condition, Chapter 9 (overview of political theories). Available in LRC.
IMPORTANT DATES
Jan.28: Fall semester begins
Feb.8: Last day to receive add code issued by the instructor; last day to process and pay for add codes; deadline
to drop classes with no “W” recorded.
Feb.8: Last day to drop and be eligible for refund of enrollment fees and/or non-resident tuition
Mar.4: Last day to file a petition for Pass/No Pass Option
Spring Break: March 25-29
Apr.12: Withdrawal deadline. No drops accepted after this date!
May 25: End of semester
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Student Code of Conduct:
Students are subject to adhering to the policies and procedures of the San Diego Community College District, as well
as all federal, state, and local laws. Students are subject to charges of misconduct concerning, but not limited to, the
following acts when committed on District-owned or controlled property or a District-sponsored activities as described
in policy 3100.
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The taking of and passing off as one’s own work or ideas of another: plagiarism and academic cheating.
Falsification, alteration or misuse of campus/District documents and records.
Act or threat of damage to or theft of property belonging to or located on District-controlled property or
facilities.
The physical or verbal disruption of instructional or student services activities, administrative procedures,
public services functions, authorized curricular or co-curricular activities or prevention of authorized guests
from carrying out the purpose for which they are on campus.
The physical or verbal intimidation or harassment of such severity or pervasiveness as to have the purpose
or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's academic performance, or a District employee's work
performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational or work environment.
Disorderly, lewd, indecent or obscene conduct or expression or habitual profanity or vulgarity; any
expression which is obscene, libelous or slanderous according to current legal standards or which so incites
students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts, or the substantial
disruption of the orderly operation of the community college. (Ed. Code 76120)
Assault, or battery upon a student or district personnel on district premises or at any time or place while
under the authority of District personnel.
Participation in hazing (California Education Code Sections 32050 through 32052).
Possession of weapons, explosives, unlicensed dangerous chemicals or objects which may be used as
weapons or to threaten bodily harm, as specified in the California Penal Code or other applicable laws.
Participating in activities that are in violation of federal, state, or local laws or ordinances while on district
premises or at district-sponsored activities or college/center attendance.
Smoking on district premises, or in vehicles provided by the district used for transporting students; except
as permitted by applicable ordinances, laws, college guidelines and District procedure 0505.2.
Use, possession, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages on campus except as permitted by law.
Use, possession, distribution, manufacture or sale of narcotics or other hallucinogenic drugs or substances
or inhaling or breathing the fumes of, or ingesting any poison classified as such by the California Business
and Professions Code Section 4160, Schedule 'D', except as provided by law, is prohibited when on district
premises.
Violation of Policies & Procedures for Student Organizations as enumerated in Manual 3200.
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SYLLABUS PART 2
READING SCHEDULE #1
This reading schedule is tentative. It will be updated regularly. The professor reserves the right to make changes in
the syllabus with reasonable advance notice, and it is the student’s responsibility to stay informed about new reading
schedules, including possible changes in readings and test dates. Readings are for the dates mentioned; this means
you have to read the texts listed, and then we discuss them in class. Whatever we don’t finish during one meeting
will be continued next meeting. Videos may be shown in addition to the reading schedule.
Week 1, Jan.28-30
Introduction.
Course Reader: Rosenstand, Ch.12, “Moral, Legal and Aesthetic Reasoning” pp.3-6
Week 2, Feb.4-6:
Course Reader: Rosenstand Ch.7, pp.9-17, “Personhood, Rights, and Justice” + Primary Reading: Habermas pp.3233 + Gattaca pp.39-40
Course Reader: Ch.7 cont’d, pp.17-19 “Questions of Rights and Equality” (to “Dworkin: Rights Can’t be Traded for
Benefits”)
Week 3, Feb.11-13:
Course Reader Ch.7 cont’d.
Wolff: An Introduction to Political Philosophy (Wolff): Introduction; Ch.1, The State of Nature: Hobbes. Pp. 1-17
Social and Political Philosophy (SPP): Hobbes pp.141-148
Course Reader: “Maester Hobbes goes to King’s Landing” pp.97-104
1st paper topics posted
Week 4, Feb.18-20:
Feb.18: PRESIDENT’S DAY: HOLIDAY!
SPP Hobbes cont’d
Course Reader: “Maester Hobbes” cont’d
Week 5, Feb.25-27:
Wolff: Ch.1: Locke pp.17-23
SPP: Locke pp.169-184
Week 6, Mar.4-6
Study guide posted, review
Wolff: Ch.1, Rousseau pp.24-29
SPP: Rousseau pp.205-217, pp.223-225
Week 7, Mar.11-13
March 11: MIDTERM (TENTATIVE DATE)
SPP: Rousseau cont’d.
SPP: Jefferson pp.239-245
Week 8, Mar.18-20
Wolff: Ch.2, “Justifying the State”: pp.34-46, Utilitarianism pp.48-55
SPP: Mill pp.310-315
March 20: 1st paper due. Late papers accepted with -3 point penalty Apr.1.
Mar. 25-29: SPRING BREAK
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Week 9, Apr.1-3
SPP Mill cont’d, recap.
Wolff Ch.4, “The Place of Liberty”: Mill pp.104-125
[Recommended: Wolff pp.125-128]
2nd paper topics distributed
Week 10, Apr.8-10
Wolff Ch.3: “Who Should Rule?” pp.62-66, Plato pp.66-75
SPP: Plato, The Republic pp.17-26
Week 11, Apr.15-17
SPP: Plato cont’d.
Video: Great Books: Plato’s Republic (If feasible)
[Recommended: Wolff on Rousseau vs Plato pp.77-93]
SPP: Aristotle, Politics pp.95-100
Week 12, Apr.22-24
Course Reader: Chapter 7, pp.19-26 (“Dworkin,” “Negative Rights,” “Positive Rights,” “Distributive Justice,”
“Affirmative Action”)
SPP: Marx pp.379-380
Wolff: Rawls pp.152-157
[Recommended: pp.157-176]
April 22: Quiz (tentative), last 30 minutes of class.
Week 13, Apr.29-May 1
Course Reader: Ch.13, “Applied Ethics: a Sampler” pp.45-48, “Abortion” and “Euthanasia.”
Course Reader: Ch.13 pp.48-53, “Media Ethics, + Narrative pp.87-88, State of Play
Week 14, May 6-8
Course Reader: Ch.13 pp.60-63, “Animal Welfare and Animal Rights”
Course Reader: Ch.13, pp.63-66: “Ethics of the Environment” + Primary Readings pp.81-83 + Narrative pp.89-91,
Cold Wind
May 8: 2nd paper due. Late papers accepted with -3 points penalty May 13.
Week 15, May 13-15
Course Reader: Ch. 7, pp.26-30 “Criminal Justice”
Course Reader: Ch.13, pp.66-71, “The Death Penalty” + Primary Readings pp.83-86 + Narratives pp.91-94: “The
Jigsaw Man” and The Life of David Gale
All extra credit due May 15.
Study guide posted; review.
Week 16, May 20-22
The final exam will be conducted on May 20, 9:35. On May 22, 9:35 finals and papers will be returned. Attendance
is mandatory. If you miss the final meeting you will lose 3 points.
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