The Nature of Evil

The topic of Philosophy 104, the main course of this FIG, is evil, approached as an ethical concept and from secular points of view. The first half of the semester examines works that deal theoretically with the concept of evil. The second half examines more specific issues regarding torture, terrorism, and genocide, tying them to Abu Ghraib, the 9/11 bombings, and the Holocaust. Readings include classical and contemporary work by such thinkers as Kant, Mill, Nietzsche, Arendt, Jean Amery, Primo Levi, and others that students may not have heard of but who offer important insights into the nature of evil. This will be a Writing Intensive Course, and two Writing Fellows will also work with the students in this FIG. Written assignments will consist of three short essays in the first half of the course and one slightly more extended essay in the second half, focusing on an issue regarding torture, terrorism, or genocide. In Political Science 103, International Relations, students will explore past and present patterns of political, social, and technological change and their implications. This course will provide the background as students explore the nature of evil in the political sphere. In English 100, Freshman Composition, students will develop the research and writing skills appropriate for completing seminar assignments.