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| This is a class in ethics. It is not the role of ethical theory to give answers to particular problems, but to provide frameworks which challenge individuals to think critically and clearly about ethical issues and help them come to their own conclusions. Moral philosophy demands that one have reasons for moral decisions and explores possible principles one can apply in an attempt to arrive at a consistent and well thought out moral position. Most of the issues we face have no obvious or immediate answer, but much can be gained by struggling with what appears to be irresolvable. Given this description of moral philosophy and ethics, one should not expect to sit passively in this class and receive answers. It is expected that each student will engage this material actively and thoughtfully. This means students must read carefully and critically, come to class prepared to discuss and ask questions, and be willing to engage alternative perspectives on many issues. This is not an easy thing to do and students should not be afraid to acknowledge the inevitable discomfort and fear that comes with encountering people who think differently. To grow, however, we must fact this discomfort and stretch our thinking in new directions. At its best, this class will help students do just that. This particular class has a focus on ethical issues related to food. Who and what we eat reflects, and has consequences for, who we are as individuals and as a society. This course will examine some of the ethical concerns related to the conditions of human and other animal beings involved in the production of food and help students arrive at their own considered opinions regarding these issues. Animal welfare and environmental issues will be a central focus. Some specific issues will include: the environmental impacts of farming, livestock welfare, food waste, food safety, and food justice. Students in this class should bring their own questions and concerns about food to shape the reading and discussion. Some questions might include: Does it make sense to love dogs and eat pigs? If I am concerned about the environment, should I eat packaged food? Should I buy food from companies that don't pay a fair wage? How should we grow, harvest, transport, and prepare food? How are race, class, and gender connected to food production and consumption? Who is responsible for our food habits? Are choices about food simply personal choices, or are there ethical, social, and political implications we should take into account? |
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