Freedom and Responsibility
In this course we will debate the nature of freedom, responsibility, the standards of moral praise and blame, and the morality of punishment.
Discuss foundational questions: What is freedom and what does it require? Does freedom matter? Could scientists reveal to us that the laws of nature prevent us from being free?
Then explore problems arising from the foundational debates: Does moral responsibility require freedom? Does responsibility come in degrees?
Consider potentially mitigating conditions of responsibility: Should people be blamed (or praised) for their actions when upbringing, character, and environment appear to be largely matters of luck?
Finally, consider the relationship between blame and punishment: What justifies the practice of punishing criminals? What is the ultimate purpose of punishment and blame?
Required Readings
Free Will: the basics, Meghan Griffith (MG).
Free Will (2nd ed.), ed. Gary Watson (GW).
All other readings posted on Blackboard (BB).
