FYSP 007 - Character Wars: What is Virtue and (how) Can We Attain It?

Semester Offered: First Semester
Full Course
Credits: 4 credits
Attribute: 4HU, WINT

We often ask ourselves, “what kind of person ought I to be?” As far back as Aristotle, developing a certain kind of virtuous character has been seen as an approach to both morality and living a flourishing life. Recent empirical work in social psychology, however, has raised doubts concerning the extent to which people are able to develop true virtues. In this course, we will (i) study historical and contemporary views of virtue, (ii) investigate empirical studies, ranging from behavioral laboratory studies to war crimes, racism, and misogyny, and (iii) engage with questions concerning responsibility, personhood, and the good life.

Enrollment Limit: 15
Instructor: C. Johnson

Consent of the Instructor Required: Yes