Teaching

Here are descriptions, syllabi, and sample materials for the courses I've taught at W&L
  • Seminar in Ethics and Value Theory: Love and Commitment (PHIL 396B)
    • ​Description: In this seminar, we will examine a series of questions about love and commitment. Some of the question we will address include: What is the source of the normativity of our commitments? Should we always prioritize our moral commitments over our personal ones? Is our partiality toward our loved ones morally justifiable? Why is heartbreak one of the worst pains a person can feel?
    • Syllabus (Fall 2023)
  • Decision Theory (PHIL 371)
    • Description: In this course, students will explore ways that rational decision-making both by individuals and by groups has been modeled in philosophy, political science, economics, and other social sciences. In addition to learning about the formal foundations of decision theory, students will be introduced to contemporary debates among philosophers working in decision theory.
    • ​​Syllabus (Winter 2023)
    • Sample final exam with solutions
  • ​Aesthetics (PHIL 264)
    • Description: In this course, we will examine a series of philosophical questions about art. Questions include: What is art? What makes art good or bad, and who decides? Can morally bad art be good art? How should we engage with the art of immoral artists? What are the varieties of aesthetic experience we have in our everyday lives? Why care about art at all?
    • Syllabus (Winter 2024)
  • Philosophy of Race (PHIL 253)
    • Description:  In this course, students will consider a series of philosophical questions concerning race and racism, paying special attention to the ways we think and talk about race. Questions we will address include: What is race? What is racial oppression? What is the relationship between racism and capitalism? Why are racial stereotypes so pervasive? Why is hate speech harmful? Should colleges no-platform racist speakers? What is the best way to respond to racism?
    • Syllabus (Fall 2023)
  • Introduction to Moral and Political Philosophy (PHIL 104)
    • Description: This course provides an introduction to moral and political philosophy by exploring two vexing conflicts. First is the conflict between morality and individuality: what should we do when the right thing to do, morally speaking, is different than the right thing to do for us? Is it okay for us to pursue personal projects when we could do so much more good if we devoted our lives to promoting the welfare of others? Second is the conflict between moral responsibility and moral luck: how can we hold people responsible for their wrongdoings (and legally punish them) if the circumstances we are born into–and that make us who we are–are simply a matter of luck? Is the aim of the US criminal justice system to hold people responsible for their wrongdoings because they deserve it? Does it achieve that aim? In the process of exploring these conflicts, students will develop critical reading and writing skills as well as the ability to engage in productive, respectful discussion.
    • Syllabus (Fall 2022)​​