Debating Ethics

Is it wrong to enjoy true crime media because it’s based on harm done to real people? Is it ok for one country to threaten another with nuclear warfare, to avoid world destruction? Should some books be banned from schools? Such ethical questions surround us, and each one comes with a range of reasonable answers. Through lectures, discussions, and practice drills based on Ethics Bowl cases, students will learn to develop the foundational skills required to discuss complex issues productively, build strong arguments, respond to objections, and explore ethical theories. The course will conclude with a tournament-style scrimmage where students will apply their newly acquired understanding of public speaking, argumentation, and ethical theory. This course has no prerequisites, though current or future Ethics Bowlers and Debaters are especially encouraged to attend.