Moral Issues and the Self
Philosopher Michael Sandel continues his discussion of morality and the self, exploring the ideas of both the encumbered and the unencumbered self. As an example of someone who acted with the sense of solidarity and moral obligation consistent with ...
Do We Have Free Will?: Theory of Determinism, The
The theory of determinism contends that human behavior, like every other physical phenomenon in the universe is determined by the laws of cause and effect rather than free will. The scientific advances of the 17th century and the work of Sir Isaac N...
Advanced Directives
Professor of Law and Medicine Alex Capron talks about the value and importance of communicating one's wishes in advance concerning end-of-life issues and decisions.
Strengthening Corporate Ethics
Codes of conduct at Fortune 500 companies have increased dramatically in recent years. And many companies now require their managers to sign a letter stating that they have no known conflicts of interest that might cause them to conduct their busine...
Liberal and Communitarian Theories of Government
Philosopher Michael Sandel says he recognizes the power of the liberal theory of government, because its neutral position regarding morality is based on a certain conception of freedom. Despite this, however, Professor Sandel believes the liberal po...
Prolonging Life: Ethical and Legal Implications
Professor of Law and Medicine Alex Capron discusses some of the ethical issues pertaining to the care of dying patients, including decisions about when to stop treatment.
Do We Have Free Will?: Question of Free Will, The
In Chicago in the 1920s, two 18-year old college students charged with killing a school boy are on trial for murder. Their defense attorney, Clarence Darrow, argue that they were doomed long before they committed their terrible crime. His passionate...
Developing Ethics From Childhood
Philosopher Martha Nussbaum talks about ethics as part of character development starting from early childhood. She points out that there are multiple perspectives on early childhood and it can be difficult to focus on the "right account."
Community and Individual Identity, The
Philosopher Charles Taylor talks about individual identity, particularly as reflected in moral positions of individuals. Professor Taylor explains that what often seems to be the position of the individual alone is actually a position that has, at l...
What Justifies the Power of the State? (Part One)
Philosopher Michael Sandel discusses two approaches to liberalism, what he terms libertarian liberalism and egalitarian liberalism. He also talks about his own reluctance to be labeled as a communitarian, because he feels the term is often used syno...