Matrix of Topics for PHI 2010 Final Exam

Chapter 4 Personal Identity

1. Qualitative Identity, numerical identity.
Animalism
b) Siamese Twins
2. Memory Theory
a) Reid’s Tale of the Brave Officer
b) Direct and indirect memories
c) Real memory, apparent memory, quasi-memory
3. Psychological Continuity Theory
4. The Reduplication Problem
a) William’s Reincarnation of Guy Fawkes
b) Williams’ Reduplication Argument
c) Parfit Teletransporter
5. Revised Body Theory
6. Split Brains: Brain Theory
a) Parfit’s Division
7. Identity and what matters in survival and responsibility
8. Slef as "process."

Chapter 5 Ethics
1. Subjective Absolutism; Counterarguments
2. Subjective Relativism; Counterarguments
3. Emotivism; Blanshard’s Rabbit
4. Cultural relativism; Counterarguments
5. Logical Structure of Moral Arguments
6. Are there universal moral principles?
7. Consequentialist Theory; Formalist Theory
8. Intrinsic and Instrumental Values
8. Ethical egoism
9. Act Utilitarianisma) Mc Closkey’s informantb) Brandt’s Heir
10. Rule Utilitarianism; Organ Transplants
11. Kant’s Categorical Imperative
12. Universalizability, reversibility
13. Perfect and imperfect dutiesa) Hare’s Nazi fanaticb) Ross’ Good Samaritan19. Second Formulation
14. Ross’ Prima Facie Duties; actual duties. You most know hierarchy and each one of these duties
15. Pluralistic formalism

Chapter 6
6.1
Cosmological, teleological and ontological arguments:
1. Theism, agnosticism, atheism, deism, fideism
2. Aquinas’ Cosmological Arguments with C/A
3. Watch-watchmaker analogical argument with C/A
4. Best Explanation Argument with C/A and Intelligent Design
5. Argument from Religious Experience with C/A
6. Anselm’s Ontological Argument with C/A
7. Descartes variation of Anselm’s argument with C/A
8. Pascal’s Wager

6.2
Theodicies:
1. Ontological Defense with C/A
2. Knowledge Defense with C/A
3. Free-Will Defense with C/A
4. Ideal-Humanity Defense with C/A
5. Character building defense with C/A

6.3
1. Kierkegaard’s leap of faith with C/A
2. Importance of evidentialism
3. World without God: Existentialism

Section 6.3

Kierkegaard’s Leap of Faith: According to Kierkegaard, God needs not be proved because -at best- HE would become probable. The best solution is to believe by faith. The more absurd the predicament, the more intense the faith. What’s important with faith is not "what" one believes but "how" one believes. Kierkegaard defines it as "subjective truth." Counterargument: 1- What if one is wrong? 2- How about the result of blind faith in fundamentalism or fanaticism?

Evidentialism: It holds that not only we need evidence to support our beliefs, but that we have a responsibility to have adequate evidence to avoid unnecessary wrongs to innocent people (Torquemada and the Inquisition is a good example: He had faith in what he was doing, yet, he didn’t have evidence).

Existentialism: In a world without a God, humans are free and responsible for what they do. We constantly create ourselves in the act of making choices. Life is absurd: There is no single explanation for the way things are.

Theodicies 6.2

The Ontological Defense: Goodness cannot exist without evil. So a world without evil is impossible. Counterargument: 1- Goodness isn’t a type of evil. Goodness and evil and like “red” and “not-red.” With contradictory concepts it’s possible to have one without the other. 2- Lack of evil doesn’t preclude goodness. If it did, there would be no goodness in heaven.

Knowledge Defense: Knowledge of evil is important (even to understand goodness) and it cannot exist unless there’s evil in the world. Counterargument: Suppose this is true, then how can one explain the excess of evil? Unnecessary evil is not justified by the knowledge defense. Evil must be necessary for something other than our education.

Free will defense: Evil is necessary for free will. We choose and sometimes we choose evil over good. Counterargument: 1- There’s still much more evil in the world that is necessary. Why is evil chosen so often? The theist needs to answer this question. 2- Heaven offers another example. Angels are free and yet they don’t choose evil. Why not?

Ideal Humanity Defense: Evil improves the human race. Counterargument: This is an argument of the living, not the dead.

Character (or soul) building defense: Evil is not wrong for our own sake. Counterargument: If this is true, then fighting evil becomes wrong (you shouldn’t alleviate a person’s suffering because it’s good for her character).

PHI 2010: Section 6.1

Find a succint breakdown of some of the most important arguments and counterarguments from 6.1 under Theism.

Ontological Argument by St. Aquinas: The universe must have a “first cause,” which must spring from an eternal Being. That eternal Being is God. Counterargument: 1- Quantum physics proves that not every event has a cause. 2- The universe just “happens.” 3- The Big Bang Theory

Analogical Design Argument: A watch is to a watchmaker as the universe is to God. Counterargument: 1- John Stuart Mill sees the creation of the universe as evidence against the omnipotence of God. If God needs the universe to accomplish HIS goals, then HE is not omnipotent. 2- The universe "as organism" rather than a machine (where living things come into being through reproduction rather than conscious design.

Best Explanation Argument: The best explanation for the existence of such complex universe is that it was created by a supernatural Being. Counterargument: Evolution and natural selection

Intelligent Design: Evolution is false because there are structures that are so complex that they cannot have evolved through natural selection. Michael Behe’s idea of "irreducible complexity" claims just that. Irreducible complexity refers to a system composed of well-matched parts, interacting to bring forth a basic function (ex. a mouse trap). Counterargument: Most biologists believe that there are instances of systems that contradict Behe’s argument, ex. air bladders (or primitive lungs) made it possible for some fish to acquire new sources of food, but they were not necessary to the survival of the fish. Then as fish acquired legs and arms, lungs became essential.

Argument from Miracles: The universe must have been performed by a miracle worker. Counterargument: Why should God bend its own rules?

Argument from Religious Experience: A subjective experience that’s so powerful and unique that the only possible explanation is that it was produced by a supernatural being.
Counterargument: 1- Hallucinogenics have been used by ancient civilizations as worship experiences to tap into altered states. 2- This kind of experience is internal and vague and not enough to warranty an external source.

St. Anselm’s Ontological Argument: If one can conceive of a God (the greatest possible Being), then that God must exist in reality (a Being that exists in reality is greater than a being that exists only in our minds). Counterargument: “Superman.”

Descartes’ Ontological Argument: God is all perfection and since existence is perfection, then God exists. Counterargument: From Kant: Existence is not a defining property of anything.

Pascal’s Wager: We’re better believing in God rathern than not, just in case he exists.

Update on progress report

The progress report option for my classes ended over the weekend. I could only send them to two of my groups. However, the idea was to alert those students who were in a D-D situation (a "D" in the quiz and a "D" in the midterm). Unless you received an email from me you don't need to think of dropping the class now. On the other hand, if you are in a C-D or D-C situation, your average is sort of "D plus" or a "C minus" -depending whether the "D" happened in the midterm (which counts for 35% of the total grade). If you are in that situation you really need to aim for a "B" in the final exam to end up with a better average.

PHI 2604 PROGRESS REPORT

I'll be sending a progress report to all PHI 2604 classes (based on the midterm results). Please, get back to me if I ask you to do so.

PHI 2010: Link to "Doing Philosophy"

This is the link for our textbook, "Doing Philosophy." Click on the different chapters and then review the section you are looking for. Each section has flash cards, true-or-false and multiple-choice questions. Test yourself and good luck.

You most bring a scantron sheet to the quiz. Buy only the green or teale rectangular scantron, which is for sale at the bookstore. Don't buy the red ones.

PHI 2010 TOPICS FOR MIDTERM EXAM

CH1
Necessary and sufficient conditions
1.2
Argument, premise, conclusion
Deductive arguments: validity, etc.
Inductive arguments: strong, cogent, etc.
Analogical Induction
Hypothetical Induction
Criteria of Adequacy
Fallacies:
Begging the Question; False Dilemma; Appeal to the Person; Appeal to Authority; Appeal to Ignorance; Appeal to Fear
1.3
Thought Experiment
Counterexample

CH 7
Knowledge by acquaintance; performative knowledge; propositional knowledge; a priori, a posteriori;
Theories of Truth: Correspondence, Pragmatic Theory, Coherence
Cartesian certainty
Reasonable Doubt
7.3
Internal Theory of Knowledge: Knowledge by Justification C/E "Gettier's Job Seekers" and/or "Triff’s Dr. Appointment”
Causal Theory of Knowledge. C/E “Goldman's Fake Barns”
Defeasibility Theory. C/E “The Demented Mrs. Grabbit”
Reliability Theory
Explanationist Theory

CH 2
2.2
Empiricism
Logical Behaviorism; C/E “Perfect Pretender”
Qualia
Identity Theory; C/E “Nagel’s Bat”
2.3
Functionalism; C/E Putnam’s “Inverted Spectrum”
Turing test for computer intelligence
Intentionality
2.5
Property Dualism
Emergent Property
Downward Causation

CH 3
Casual determinism
3.1
Hard determinism; C/E common sense, use of subjunctive, the idea of responsibility and accountability
Causal Indeterminism
Indeterminism p.184
C/E Taylor’s unpredictable arm
3.2
Soft determinism
Traditional Compatibilism
C/E Locke’s trapped conversationalist; Taylor’s ingenious physiologist; Taylor’s drug addiction
Harry Frankfurt’s Hierarchical compatibilism (first, second order desires and second order volitions)
E Frankfurt’s unwilling and wanton addict; happy addict
C/E Slote’s Hypnotized Patient and Willing Bank Teller
3.3
Libertarianism
Agent causation and event causation

PHI 2604 Chapter 5: HOMEWORK

1- What is a limited liability company?
2- Provide an account on the evolution of corporations?
3- Define the three senses of “responsibility” as defined on p. 208.
4- Can corporations make moral decisions? Explain.
5- Is the vanishing sense of individual responsibility inside corporations enough to absolve or excuse unethical corporate decisions? Why not?
6- Define the narrow view of profit maximization
7- Define the broader view of corporate social responsibility.
8- Explain the following arguments:a) Invisible Hand Argumentb) Materialization-of-Society Argumentc) Inept Custodian Argument.
9- Can corporate ethical policies be institutionalized? How?
10- In which way corporate culture plays a part in achieving a more ethical corporate environment?

PHI 2010: Link for "Doing Philosophy" textbook.

This is the link for "Doing Philosophy" Website. Click on Chapters (1, 7) and then review the section you are looking for. Each section has flash cards, true or false, and multiple choice questions. Test yourself and good luck.

You most bring a scantron to the quiz. Buy only the green, rectangular scantron, which is for sale (15 cents) at the bookstore. Don't buy the red scantron.

PHI 2010 TOPICS FOR QUIZ

Chapter 1

1- Necessary and sufficient conditions
2- Socratic method
3- Scientific Method
4- Logical impossibility, causal impossibility and law of non-contradiction
5- Argument, premise, conclusion p.21
6- Deductive arguments: valid/invalid, sound, unsound
7- Inductive arguments: strong/weak, cogent
8- Enumerative Induction, Analogical Induction and IBE (Hypothetical Induction)
9- Criteria of adequacy (you should know each element)
10- Fallacies: (What you should know is what each one is about) Begging the Question, False Dilemma, Appeal to Person, Appeal to the masses, Appeal to Ignorance, Hasty Generalization
11- Thought experiment, counterexample, test implication
12- The difference between conceivability and possibility

Chapter 7

1- Knowledge by acquaintance, performative knowledge, propositional knowledge
2- Theories of truth: Correspondence, Pragmatic Theory and Coherence Theory of Truth. Provide examples of each of these and their differences.
3- Standard account of knowledge / Gettier’s job seekers or Triff’s dental appointment
4- Defeasibility Theory /Lehrer’s demented Mrs. Grabit.
5- Causal Theory /Goldman’s fake barns
6- Reliability Theory /Lehrer’s Human Thermometer.
7- Explanationist Theory of Knowledge

PHI 2010 Honors (Champagne)

This morning I mentioned Champagne in relation to our analysis of the criteria of adequacy in induction. Champagne, stands as the epitome of sophistication in wine production. It’s a state of mind (think of Marilyn Monroe’s addiction to the beverage -as well as kings). Champagne’s celebratory status is unique; handed a glass of champagne, we simply abandon ourselves to its implied pleasure. Some details: 1- Made from three grapes, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, 2- The champagne we drink today is very different from the one produced by Dom Perignon back in the 18th Century. Back then, Perignon tried to fight the wine’s bubbly and tart character with extra sugar. It was probably cloudy, gritty and coarse. Only later, they realized that this very character was unique to this region. 3- How many bubbles are there in a champagne bottle? 4- What does Brut, Extra Brut, Dry, Demi-Sec and Doux stand for?

PHI 2604 Chapter 2 Homework

Chapter 2 Homework

Part one:
1.What's the difference between consequentialist and nonconsequentialist (or deontological)theories?
2. Define "Egoism." Provide examples.
a) What are some of the misconceptions about Egoism?
3. Identify the term "Psychological Egoism"? In which way is P.E. different from Ethical Egoism described in 2. above?
4. Enumerate the problems presented by Egoism.
5. Explain "Utilitarianism." Provide examples.
6. Go over the six points addressing utilitarianism as they appear on pp. 61, 62.
7. Go over some of the critiques of Utilitarianism.
8. In what sense is business practice "utilitarian" according to Adam Smith (while fostering self-interest?).

Part two:
1. What's the meaning of "good will" according to Kant?
2. Define Kant's catergorical imperative.
3. Explain the difference between a categorical and a hypothetical prescription.
4.What does Kant mean by "universal acceptability"?
5. State Kant's second formulation. Why is a person an "end" rather than a "means to an end"?
6. Go over some of the critical inquires of Kant's theory.
7. What is a prima facie duty?
8. Following W.D. Ross, establish a hierarchy of prima facie duties.
9. What is a right?
10. Establish the difference between positive and negative rights.
11. Can human rights be justified?

PHI 2010 Honors

A little about the Russian math genius Grigory Perlman (I may have brought up his name in class) and his discovery of the so called Poincare's Conjecture here. If you're interested about laid back intense check this out.

PHI 2010 (Syllabus)

Phi 2010 Syllabus


Alfredo Triff Ph.D.
Room 3604-40 (Building #3)
Tel. 305.237.7554
E-mail: atriff@mdc.edu
Office Hours: Posted
Text: Doing Philosophy: An Introduction through Thought Experiments by Theodore Schick and LewisVaughn (3rd edition)

Goals

* To become familiar with contemporary trends in philosophy.

* To explore key subjects within philosophy, such as epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, ontology and aesthetics.

* To stimulate a philosophical spirit of open debate, conversation, as well as the ethics of dialogue.

* To further our critical thinking skills in order to deal with the challenges posed by the professional and academic world.


Evaluation

1. Grades A, B and C stand for outstanding, good and average respectively. D is below average. F means not enough work to justify credit for the course.

2. We have three multiple-choice tests: a quiz, (15%) a midterm (35%) and a final exam (35%). They count for 85% of the final grade. Class participation and effort are important. This breakdown only reflects a qualitative approximation since it may reflects the curving of grades.

3. Attendance is expected. Two non-excused absences are permitted. Each absence thereafter will lower the participation grade by half a letter. Missing exams must be justified by a doctor’s note or the equivalent. Please, feel free to contact me if you have a serious problem with or in the class.


Policies


1. Cheating? A serious academic transgression, which will be penalized according to college policy.

3. I expect a minimum of class demeanor. Courtesy and respect...

4. If I assigned a report, it should be WP/typed and stapled.

Some suggestions

1. I conduct my classes from the textbook and perhaps some additional readings that I'll post in our webpage. Philosophy is deep. It requires awareness, detachment, cool. For some people the problem will be settled with a quick “yes” or “no.” We don't do that: too quick, to easy, flabby. Be tough.

2. Do the homeworks. It will keep you up with the material. talk philosophy to your friends (it looks cool). Sure, there are winners, but we don’t focus on that. We seek truth and clarity. You're confused? Not bad. Confusion means struggle, which points to change. Try to read. Books are good friends. People don't read much nowadays and it shows in their conversations.

Schedule of Classes

Chapter 1 Philosophical Problems
1.1: Explaining The Possibility Of The Impossible: Philosophical Problems. Stakes In Philosophical Enquiry: An Account Of Problems, Such As Mind-Body, Free Will, Personal Identity, Moral Relativism, And The Concept Of Evil.
1.2: Evidence And Inference.
1.3: Thought Experiments

Chapter 7 Epistemology
7.1 Skepticism As A Key To Certainty: Descartes
7.2 Perception Of The External World.
7.3 How Much Do We Know? What Knowledge Is: Defeasibility Theory; Causal Theory; Reliability Theory; Explanationist Theory

Chapter 2 The Mind/Body Problem
2.1 The Ghost In The Machine: Mind As Soul: Descartes’ Doubt; Je Pense Donc Je Suis; Conceivability Argument; Divisibility Argument; Causal Impotence Of The Mental; Causal Closure Of The Physical; Other Minds
2.2 You Are What You Eat: Mind As Body: Empiricism; Positivism; Logical Behaviorism; Identity Theory
2.3 I, Robot: Mind As Sofware: AI; Functionalism And Feeling; The Turing Test; Intentionality
2.4 There Are No Ghosts: Mind And Myth: Psychology; Subjective Knowledge
2.5 Mind As Quality: Primitive Intentionality; Mental Dependence; Downward Causation

Quiz

Chapter 3 Free Will Or Determinism?
3.1 Freedom As Chance: Hard Determinism; Indeterminism
3.2 Freedom As Necessity: Traditional Compatibilism; Hierarchical Compatibilism;
3.3 Freedom As Self-Determination: Agent Causation

Chapter 4 Personal Identity And Selfhood
4.1 Self And Substance: Animalism; The Soul Theory
4.2 Golden Memories: Self As Psyche: Memory Theory; Inconsistency Objection; Circularity Objection; Reduplication Problem
4.3 Self As Process: The Brain Theory; Split Brains; Identity And Survival; Identity And Responsibility; Explaining Selfhood

Midterm exam

Chapter 5 Ethics and Political Philosophy
5.1 Might Makes Right: Subjective Absolutism And Relativism; Cultural Relativism; Divine Command Theory; Are There Universal Moral Principles?
5.2 Good Makes Right: Ethical Egoism; Act Utilitarianism: Problems With Rights, Duties And Justice; Rule Utilitarianism
5.3 Duty Makes Right: Kant’s Categorical Imperative: First And Second Formulations; Ross’ Prima Facie Duties;
5.4 Virtue Makes Right: The Virtuous Utilitarian, Kantian; Purpose Of Morality; Aristotle On Virtue, Mcintyre On Virtue; Virtue Ethics

Maybe Chapter 6

Addendum: Triff’s Notes on Political Philosophy

Final (Not cumulative)

I reserve the right to make changes in the order or chapters, provided I let you know in advance.

Welcome!

PHI 2010 Final Topics

Find the final topics for our PHI 2010 Final Exam here.

Add to it the following taken from section 5.4:

1. Aristotle's notion of virtue
2. Virtue Ethics

Also, use this link from the textbook and test yourself (I may take one or two questions from here). Remember to bring a scantron sheet for the test next Thursday.

Euthanasia

An interesting case on MSN today, possibly involving euthanasia.

PHI 2604 Chapter 7 Homework

1. Explain the idea of legitimate and illegitimate influence.
2. What’s “informed consent”?
3. Go over the reasons why business use polygraph tests.
4. There are generally three assumptions people have about polygraph tests. Which are they?
5. Why do companies use “personality tests”?
6. Go over four remarks about drug testing in pages 334,335.
7. What are the moral issues surrounding day care and maternity leave?
8. Go over the reading on page 364 Work, Privacy, and Autonomy and try to answer questions 1, 3 & 5.

Insider Trading

This is a very interesting piece of news. It concerns the stealing of trade secrets, which is illegal and unethical Apparently, an executive from Coca Cola offered Pepsi a sample of a secret new beverage, but Pepsi tipped the FBI...

PHI 2604 Home Work: Chapter 4

1- Historic background of Capitalism p. 151
2- Key Features of Capitalism (companies, profit motive, competition, private property) p. 153-155
3- Moral Justifications of Capitalism (Natural Right to Property, Adam Smith’s Concept of the Invisible Hand) p. 155-157
4- Critiques of Capitalism (Inequality, Human Nature and Capitalism, Capitalism breeding Oligopolies, Exploitation and Alienation) p. 159-163
5- Focus on the Short Term
6- Declining Interests in Production p. 166

PHI 2604 FOR YOUR INFORMATION

SCANTRON SHEET FOR QUIZ

you're supposed to bring a scantron sheet to the exam next Wednesday. They're for sale at the bookstore ($0.15). We use a small rectangular (green or bluish) card. Also, no pen. Bring a sharpened pencil.

PHI 2604 Link to Questions for the Quiz

This is the link for the book Moral Issues in Bussiness. To the left of the page, you have the chapters, then, check each of the tutorial exams. Play with it and have fun.

About last night

Last night we had an interesting discussion. I’m posting the Wikipedia’s definition of "homosexuality." Take a look at the "contents" box. Also take a look at "abortion" and the "ethical aspects of abortion." Again, to properly discuss these topics one needs first to find out the facts provided by the different scientific disciplines: biology, medicine, sociology, psychology, as well as history etc. Remember that moral judgments need facts and reliable moral norms.

PHI 2604

In the realative peace of the West we are not often exposed to stuff like this. The piece, written by an African journalist, shows that there are two fundamental principles that all humans can abide to: The first to treat all humans equally, the second, to avoid unnecessary human suffering.

PHI 2010 Website (Final review)

Use this site to review. It contains flashcards, quizzes and other useful material. Click on the chapter and respective section. http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/0072878274/student_view0/

PHI 2604 Chapter 8 Homework

1. Elucidate “conflict of interest” in the workplace.
2. Why does Bart Williams have a conflict when dealing with Leisure Sports World?
3. Come up with one example of a conflict of interest you’ve recently witnessed.
4. What constitute “insider trading”? Comment the famous Texas Sulphur stock case.
5. In the case of proprietary data, discuss the P&G case of suing three rival food chains for using a patented process to make “infringing cookies.”
6.a) What happens when novel information is patented or copyrighted? How about downloading music or videos one doesn’t pay for?
b) What’s a trade secret?
7. Define “bribe.” In the example provided in the text, why is Norman Rothberg’s conduct wrong?
8. Define “kickback.”
Comment the case of some American executives at Honda.
9. Go over the seven rules on “gifts” on pages 397 & 398.
10. Consider the situations on page 399. What are our obligations to third parties when such problems arise?
11. Define “whistle blowing.” Go over the five points that Norman Bowie sees as constituting justification.
12. Is self-interest more important than the interests of the public?

SCANTRON SHEET FOR QUIZ (ALL CLASSES)

Remember that you're supposed to bring a scantron sheet to the exam. They're for sale at the bookstore ($0.15). We use a small rectangular (green or bluish) card. Also, no pen. Bring a sharpened pencil.

PHI 2010 Topics for the Midterm

CH1
Necessary and sufficient conditions
1.2 Argument, premise, conclusion
Deductive arguments: validity, etc.
Inductive arguments: strong, cogent, etc.
Analogical Induction
Hypothetical InductionCriteria of Adequacy
Fallacies:Begging the Question; False Dilemma; Appeal to the Person; Appeal to Authority; Appeal to Ignorance; Appeal to Fear
1.3 Thought Experiment and counterexample

CH 7
Knowledge by acquaintance; performative knowledge; propositional knowledge; a priori, a posteriori;Theories of Truth: Correspondence, Pragmatic Theory, Coherence
7.3 Internal Theory of Knowledge: Knowledge by Justification C/E “Triff’s Dr. Appointment”Causal Theory of Knowledge. C/E “The Demented Mrs. Grabbit”Defeasibility Theory. C/E “Goldman’s Fake Barns”Reliability TheoryExplanationist Theory

CH 2
2.2 Logical Behaviorism; C/E “Perfect Pretender”QualiaIdentity Theory; C/E “Nagel’s Bat”
2.3Functionalism; C/E Putnam’s “Inverted Spectrum”
Turing test for computer intelligence
Intentionality
2.5 Property Dualism
Emergent Property
Downward Causation

CH 3
3.1 Hard determinism; C/E common sense, the idea of responsibility and accountability
Soft determinism
Traditional Compatibilism C/E Locke’s trapped conversationalist; Taylor’s ingenious physiologist; Taylor’s drug addiction
Harry Frankfurt’s Hierarchical compatibilism (first, second order desires and second order volitions) C/E Willing Bank Teller
3.3 Libertarianism
Agent causation and event causation

PHI 2604 Chapter 6: Homework

Chapter 6

1. Why do companies screen applicants? What's “job description” and “job specification”?
2. What’s the purpose of “tests” when applying for a job at a company?
3. Define: “Aptitude test,” “personality test,” “skill test.”
4. In measuring a test make a distinction between “validity” and “reliability.”
5. How should an interviewer conduct an interview?
6. In promotions one has to make a judgment between qualifications and seniority. What’s the best way to proceed?
7. Define “inbreeding” and “nepotism.”
8. Define “due process” and “just cause” within the context of discipline and discharge.
9. Distinguish between the following terms: Firing, termination, layoff and position elimination.
10. Go over the seven guidelines on wages established on pp. 289, 290.
11. Briefly summarize the history of the Union Movement.
12. What’s a “direct strike”? Go over Gonsalves’ 3-point criteria.
13. Analyze the difference between sympathetic strikes, boycotts and corporate campaigns.

PHI 2604 Homework: Chapter 4

1. Provide a quick background of the historic phases of capitalism.
2. What are the key features of capitalism? Explain each one.
3. Addressing moral justifications for capitalism, defend:
a) The Natural Right to Property
b) Adam Smith's Invisible Hand
4. Addressing criticisms of under capitalism, articulate:
a) Inequality
b) Human nature and capitalism (economic creatures vs. moral creatures)
c) Capitalism breeds oligopolies
d) Competition is not a good.
e) Marx's "exploitation" and "alienation."
5. What are some ot today's economic challenges for capitalism?
6. Read "Buddhist Economics" (page 181-185) and answer questions 1-6

PHI 2010 Homework

Section 2.1 Study questions, #1,6,7

Section 2.2 Study questions, #2, 4-11

PHI 2604 Link to Questions for the Quiz

This is the link for our textbook, Moral Issues in Bussiness that I talked to you about. To the left of the page, you have the chapters, then, check each of the tutorial exams. Play with it and have fun. I may use some of these questions.

This is the link for the Doing Philosophy Website. Click on Chapters (1 or 7) and then the section you are looking for. Each section has flash cards, true or flase, and multiple choice questions. Test yourself and good luck. Also remember that you must bring your own scantron sheet (rectangular green or bluish one) to the exam. You can purchase those at the bookstore.

PHI 2010 book situation

I know about the PHI 2010 book situation. This afternoon the bookstore assured me that they're ordering books and they hope to have them in two days. That means this weekend. Sorry about the delay... it happens sometimes.

PHI 2010 Website (Final review)

Use this site to review. It contains flashcards, quizzes and other useful material. Click on the chapter and respective section.

http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/0072878274/student_view0/

Matrix of Topics for PHI 2010 Final Exam

Chapter 4

Personal Identity
1. Qualitative Identity, numerical identity, accidental and essential property; Animalism
a) Locke’s Tale of the Prince and the Cobbler
b) Siamese Twins
2. Soul Theory
a) The King of China
b) Nestor and Tersites
c) Transubstantiation
d) Souls in Heaven
3. Memory Theory
a) Reid’s Tale of the Brave Officer
b) Direct and indirect memories
c) Real memory, apparent memory, quasi-memory
4. Psychological Continuity
a) Psychological connectedness
b) Psychological Continuity Theory
5. The Reduplication Problem
a) William’s Reincarnation of Guy Fawkes
b) Williams’ Reduplication Argument
c) Parfit Teletransporter
6. Revised Body Theory
7. Split Brains: Brain Theory
a) Parfit’s Division
8. Identity and what matters in survival
9. Identity and what matters in responsibility
10. Explaining the Self

Chapter 5 Ethics

1. Subjective Absolutism; Counterarguments
2. Subjective Relativism; Counterarguments
3. Emotivism; Blanshard’s Rabbit
4. Cultural relativism; Counterarguments
5. Anthropological Argument
6. Logical Structure of Moral Arguments
7. Divine Command Theory; St. Thomas’ argument
8. Are there universal moral principles?
9. Principles of justice and mercy
10. Consequentialist Theory; Formalist Theory
11. Intrinsic and Instrumental Values
12. Ethical egoism
13. Psychological Hedonism; Feinberg’s Single-Minded Hedonist
14. Act Utilitarianism
a) Mc Closkey’s informant
b) Brandt’s Heir
c) Ross’ Diplomat
d) Godwin’s Fire Rescue
e) Ewing’s Torture
f) Ewing’s Innocent Criminal
15. Rule Utilitarianism; Organ Transplants
16. Kant’s Categorical Imperative
17. Universalizability, reversibility
18. Perfect and imperfect duties
a) Hare’s Nazi fanatic
b) Ross’ Good Samaritan
19. Second Formulation
a) Broad’s Typhoid Man
b) Ewing’s Prudent Diplomat
20. Ross’ Prima Facie Duties; actual duties. You most know hierarchy and each one of these duties
21. Pluralistic formalism
22. Virtuous Utilitarian and virtuous Kantian
23. Aristotle on virtue; MacIntyre on virtue
24. Virtue Ethics

PHI 2604 Moral Issues in Business (Website)

Please, use this Website as an additional source for questions and concepts for the FINAL EXAM:

http://www.wadsworth.com/cgi-wadsworth/course_products_wp.pl?fid=M20bI&discipline_number=5&product_isbn_issn=0534536549

At the top of the page, you have a bar with a scroll down menu for choosing chapters. Then on your left hand side you have a menu with Chapter Resources. Click on Tutorial Quiz. Good luck!

Schedule of Final Exams for All my PHI classes:

PHI 2010 meeting M,W,F, 10-10:50am: Wednesday, April 26th at 10am.

PHI 2010 meeting M,W,F, 11-11:50am: Friday, April 28th at 10am.

PHI 2010 meeting T,R, 9:50am-11:05am: Tuesday, April 25th at 9:50am.

PHI 2010 meeting T, 5:40pm-8:10pm: Tuesday, April 25th at 5:40pm.

PHI 2604 meeting W, 6:30pm: Wednesday, April 26th at 6:30pm.

PHI 2604 Homework Chapter 10

Thanks, Mary Ann!

1- Why is product safety important?
2- Explain the following terms:
a)“Due care”
b) “Caveat Emptor”
c) Strict Product Liability
3- What’s “legal paternalism”?
4- Go over the 6-point list stated as “Responsibilities of Business” on page 513.
5- As it pertain to product quality, go over the different warranties on page 516.
6- What’s “price fixing”?
7- Under “deception and unfairness in advertising, comment the following:
a) Ambiguity
b) Concealed facts
c) Exxageration
d) Psychological appeals

PHI 2604 Chapter 8 Homework

1. Elucidate “conflict of interest” in the workplace.
2. Why does Bart Williams have a conflict when dealing with Leisure Sports World?
3. Come up with one example of a conflict of interest you’ve recently witnessed.
4. What constitute “insider trading”? Comment the famous Texas Sulphur stock case.
5. In the case of proprietary data, discuss the P&G case of suing three rival food chains for using a patented process to make “infringing cookies.”
6.a) What happens when novel information is patented or copyrighted? How about downloading music or videos one doesn’t pay for?
b) What’s a trade secret?
7. Define “bribe.” In the example provided in the text, why is Norman Rothberg’s conduct wrong?
8. Define “kickback.” Comment the case of some American executives at Honda.
9. Go over the seven rules on “gifts” on pages 397 & 398.
10. Consider the situations on page 399. What are our obligations to third parties when such problems arise?
11. Define “whistle blowing.” Go over the five points that Norman Bowie sees as constituting justification.
12. Is self-interest more important than the interests of the public?

PHI 2604 Chapter 7 Homework

1. Explain the idea of legitimate and illegitimate influence.
2. What’s “informed consent”?
3. Go over the reasons why business use polygraph tests.
4. There are generally three assumptions people have about polygraph tests. Which are they?
5. Why do companies use “personality tests”?
6. Go over four remarks about drug testing in pages 334,335.
7. What are the moral issues surrounding day care and maternity leave?
8. Go over the reading on page 364 Work, Privacy, and Autonomy and try to answer questions 1, 3 & 5.

PHI 2604 Topics for the Midterm Exam

Chapter 4

1- Historic background of Capitalism p. 151
2- Key Features of Capitalism (companies, profit motive, competition, private property) p. 153-155
3- Moral Justifications of Capitalism (Natural Right to Property, Adam Smith’s Concept of the Invisible Hand) p. 155-157
4- Critiques of Capitalism (Inequality, Human Nature and Capitalism, Capitalism breeding Oligopolies, Exploitation and Alienation) p. 159-163
5- Focus on the Short Term6- Declining Interests in Production p. 166

Chapter 5

1- LLC
2- Meanings of Moral Responsibility p.208
3- Corporations and Moral Decisions p.209
4- Narrow View of Corporate Responsibility p.212
5- Broader View of Corporate Responsibility p.213
6- Invisible Hand argument p.217
7- Hand-of-Government argument p. 218
8- Inept Custodian argument p.219
9- Materialization of Society p.219

Chapter 8

1- Hiring (Screening): Job description, job specification p. 281
2- Tests: Aptitude, Personality, Skill Tests, p. 283,284
3- Interviews (how should they be conducted)
4- Promotions: Tensions between seniority and qualifications
5- Inbreeding
6- Discipline and Discharge: “just cause” and “due process” p.287
7- Wages p. 289
8- History of the Union Movement9- Direct Strike, Sympathetic Strike, Boycotts p. 294, 295

PHI 2604 Homework

Chapter 6

1. Why do companies screen applicants? What's “job description” and “job specification”?
2. What’s the purpose of “tests” when applying for a job at a company?
3. Define: “Aptitude test,” “personality test,” “skill test.”
4. In measuring a test make a distinction between “validity” and “reliability.”
5. How should an interviewer conduct an interview?
6. In promotions one has to make a judgment between qualifications and seniority. What’s the best way to proceed?
7. Define “inbreeding” and “nepotism.”
8. Define “due process” and “just cause” within the context of discipline and discharge.
9. Distinguish between the following terms: Firing, termination, layoff and position elimination.
10. Go over the seven guidelines on wages established on pp. 289, 290.
11. Briefly summarize the history of the Union Movement.
12. What’s a “direct strike”? Go over Gonsalves’ 3-point criteria.
13. Analyze the difference between sympathetic strikes, boycotts and corporate campaigns.

SCANTRON SHEET FOR QUIZ (ALL CLASSES)

Remember that you're supposed to bring a scantron sheet to the exam. They're for sale at the bookstore ($0.15). We use a small rectangular (green or bluish) card. Also, no pen. Bring a sharpened pencil.

PHI 2604 Link to Questions for the Quiz

This is the link for Moral Issues in Bussiness that I talked to you about last night. To the left of the page, you have the chapters, then, check each of the tutorial exams. Play with it and have fun.

PHI 2010 link for "Doing Philosophy" textbook.

This is the link for the Doing Philosophy Website. Click on Chapters (1 or 7) and then the section you are looking for. Each section has flash cards, true or flase, and multiple choice questions. Test yourself and good luck. Also remember that you must bring your own scantron sheet (rectangular green or bluish one) to the exam. You can purchase those at the bookstore.

PHI 2010 TOPICS FOR QUIZ

Chapter 1

1- Necessary and sufficient conditions p.11
2- Socratic method
3- Scientific Method
4- Logical impossibility, causal impossibility and law of non-contradiction
5- Argument, premise, conclusion p.21
6- Deductive arguments: valid/invalid, sound, unsound
7- Inductive arguments: strong/weak, cogent
8- Enumerative Induction, Analogical Induction and IBE (Hypothetical Induction)
9- Criteria of adequacy (you should know each element)
10- Fallacies: (What you should know is what each one is about) Begging the Question, False Dilemma, Appeal to Person, Appeal to the masses, Appeal to Ignorance, Hasty Generalization
11- Thought experiment, counterexample, test implication p.37
12- The difference between conceivability and possibility

Chapter 7

1- Knowledge by acquaintance, performative knowledge, propositional knowledge
2- A priori, a posteriori
3- Theories of truth: Correspondence, Pragmatic Theory and Coherence Theory of Truth. Provide examples of each of these and their differences.
4- Foundationalism p.495
5- Sense data, Direct Realism, Locke’s Representative Realism: primary and secondary qualities p.501
6- Phenomenalism; Berkeley’s “esse ist percipii”
7- Standard account of knowledge
8- Gettier’s job seekers or Triff’s dental appointment
9- Defeasibility Theory (Lehrer’s demented Mrs. Grabit); Causal Theory (Goldman’s fake barns) p.515
10- Reliability Theory (Lehrer’s Human Thermometer)
11- Explanationist Theory of Knowledge

PHI 2604 Homework Chapter 3

1. Define:
a) Freedom
b) Equality
c) Rights

2. “Justice” is usually defined as fairness. Is there a more detailed explanation based on today’s affairs?

3. What is the best way to cut the fiscal pie? Explain.

4. How would utilitarians do it? Cite Mill’s example of “talented workers.”

5. What would “worker participation” and “greater equality of income” mean for Mill?

6. What is the libertarian approach to justice? Define Nozick’s “entitlement theory.”

7. Explain Nozick’s other two principles.

8. Clarify Rawls’ idea of justice. Cite his two main principles.

9. Within Rawl’s theory, define:
a) Nature of choice
b) Veil of Ignorance
c) Choosing principles

PHI 2604 Syllabus

Dr. Alfredo Triff
Room 3604-40 (Building #3)
Tel. 305.237.7554
E-mail: atriff@mdc.edu
Office Hours: Posted
Text: Moral Issues in Business (9th Edition) by William H. Shaw and Vincent Barry

Objectives

* To understand the scope and purpose of business ethics, normative theories, the idea of justice and distribution.

* To explore the idea of ethics within the context of corporations.

* To comprehend the organization of the workplace, its challenges in regard to conduct, honesty
and the idea of moral choice. Responsibility and obligations.

* To investigate the idea of job discrimination and sexual harassment.

* To look at the relevance of the consumer and the issue of advertising.

* To analyze the impact of the environment and its ethical consequences.

* To create and stimulate a spirit of open debate and conversation, as well as emphasizing the ethics of dialogue.

* To further critical thinking strategies and tools in order to deal with the challenges posed by the workplace.

Methodology

1. Doing critical thinking means examining problems in a detached manner; allowing objectivity, reason, and plurality becoming the ground on which to base our judgment. This spirit needs to be defined and stimulated.

2. Critical thinking is a way of reasoning. It analyzes the world with tools that in principle constitute our building blocks to make sense of the world. These tools need to be identified and refined.

3. Once we gain a minimum of philosophical rudiments, we'll be able to implement this know-how in concrete situations in the workplace. This course is geared to confront actual contexts, and not just abstractions, which is a common misconception about philosophy.

Evaluation

1. Three tests: A quiz, a midterm and a final exam. Grades are A, B and C, which stand for outstanding, good and average respectively. D is below average. F means not enough work to justify credit for the course. Tests count for 85% of the final grade as such Q (15%) + Midterm (35%) + Final Exam (35%) + Class participation and effort (15%). Be clear that this breakdown is not strictly numerical, since I tend to curve the tests already in order to help you.

2. Attendance is expected. Three non-excused absences are permitted. Each absence thereafter will lower the participation grade. You must have a doctor's note for a justified absence in a test.

Policies

1. Plagiarism is an offense. I'll interview the students to make sure of the originality of the reports (if any).

2. Cheating is a serious academic transgression, and will be penalized according to college policy.

3. I expect a minimum of class demeanor. Courtesy and respect are important.

Some suggestions

1. I will conduct my classes from the readings of the textbook and other texts. It's important to see critical thinking as a growing discipline with an impact in our daily lives. The consequences of critical thinking are far too reaching and complex.

2. You should ponder the readings in each chapter carefully. I want to discuss each issue from an analytical point, until the themes are understood, but you should be ready to make the discussions meaningful by participating in the debates. Listening is important. Learning the ethics of discussion takes time and effort.

3. Send me e-mails if you have questions, problems, suggestions or criticisms… I will respond promptly. Letter exchange is a great philosophical tool. Let’s use it!

Calendar

Chapter 1 The Nature of Morality: Moral vs. non-moral standards. Moral Principles. The Limits of Conscience. Ethical Relativism. Individual Integrity and Responsibility.

Chapter 2 Normative Theories of Ethics: Consequentialism vs. Non-consequentialisms. Egoism. Utilitarianism. Deontology. Moral Decision Making.

Chapter 3 Justice and Economic Distribution: The Nature of Justice. The Utilitarian View. The Libertarian Approach. Rawl’s Theory of Justice.

QUIZ

Chapter 4 The Nature of Capitalism: Key Features. Moral Justifications of Capitalism. Critics of Capitalism. Economic Challenges.

Chapter 5 Corporations: Limited-Liability Agency. Corporate Moral Agency. Corporate Responsibility. Institutional Ethics Within Corporations.

Chapter 6 The Workplace. Basic Issues: Civil Liberties. Personnel Procedures. Unions.

MIDTERM

Chapter 7 Challenges Within the Workplace: Obtaining Information Working Conditions. Redesigning Work.

Chapter 8 Moral Choices Facing Employees: Obligations to Firm. Abuse of Positions. Bribes and Kickbacks. Gifts and Entertainment.

Chapter 9 Job Discrimination: Evidence of Discrimination. Affirmative Action: The Legal Context. Affirmative Action and Moral Issues. Comparable Worth. Sexual Harassment.

Chapter 10 Business and Society: Consumers. Product Safety. Deception in Advertising. The Debate Over Advertising.

Chapter 11 The Environment: Business and Ecology. Environmental Protection. Cost Allocation. Environmental Ethics.

FINAL (Not Cumulative)

PHI 2604 Chapter 2 Homework (for two weeks)

Part one:

1.What's the difference between consequentialist and nonconsequentialist (or deontological)theories?
2. Define "Egoism." Provide examples.a) What are some of the misconceptions about Egoism?
3. Identify the term "Psychological Egoism"? In which way is P.E. different from Ethical Egoism described in 2. above?
4. Enumerate the problems presented by Egoism.
5. Explain "Utilitarianism." Provide examples.
6. Go over the six points addressing utilitarianism as they appear on pp. 61, 62.
7. Go over some of the critiques of Utilitarianism.
8. In what sense is business practice "utilitarian" according to Adam Smith (while fostering self-interest?).

Part two:

1. What's the meaning of "good will" according to Kant?
2. Define Kant's catergorical imperative.
3. Explain the difference between a categorical and a hypothetical prescription.
4.What does Kant mean by "universal acceptability"?
5. State Kant's second formulation. Why is a person an "end" rather than a "means to an end"?
6. Go over some of the critical inquires of Kant's theory.
7. What is a prima facie duty?
8. Following W.D. Ross, establish a hierarchy of prima facie duties.
9. What is a right?
10. Establish the difference between positive and negative rights.
11. Can human rights be justified?

PHI 2604 Homework: Chapter 1

Have the answers to these questions ready for our next meeting on Wednesday.

1- Discuss the different meanings of “Ethics”?
2- Establish the distinction between “moral” and “non-moral” standards.
3- What’s the difference between morality and etiquette. Think of one example.
4- Point to the differences between “morality” and “law.” Think of one example.
5- Where do moral standards come from?
6- Is religion necessary for morality? Explain why or why not.
7- Define “ethical relativism.” Go over some of the counterarguments explore in the text. Do you have any other possible objections to this position?
8- (On page 13) Is it true that “business” has its own kind of ethics as Albert Carr argues for?
9- How reliable is our conscience when it comes to acting morally? Comment on Huck example (page 15).
10- Regarding individual responsibility within a corporation, what was David Frew’s discovery? (page 18)
11- What is a defensible moral judgment?
12- Discuss the requirements for moral judgments?

SPRING 2006