Education

We develop new courses that deal with significant ethical issues.
Working with faculty and students from across the University, we help to create interdisciplinary courses in ethics and human values. For example, “Brave New Crops,” taught by anthropologist Glenn D. Stone, is an undergraduate course in Arts & Sciences cross–listed in anthropology, environmental studies and international studies.

“Engineering Practice and Professional Values,” a senior and graduate–level engineering course team–taught by James Ballard from the School of Engineering and Applied Science and Stuart Yoak, Executive Officer Center for the Study of Ethics and Human Values.

At the School of Medicine, “Philosophers and Medical Ethics,” a new humanities elective organized by students working with the Center. this course is an interdisciplinary approach to medical ethics involving medical, law, and social work students

Our programs bring provocative issues to interested students.
Through a series of monthly “Ethics Night” programs, organized by the Student Ethics Education Subcommittee, the Center responds to controversial issues of interest on today’s college campuses. These programs, planned and attended by undergraduates, engage students in discussion with expert panelists from inside and outside the University.

Program topics include: “Can Religion and Science Co-exist?,” “Ethical Issues in the Testing and Distribution of Drugs in Developing Countries,” “Ethics in Advertising,” and “Global Poverty: The Ethics of International Aid.”

“We wanted to give students the chance to plan and participate in lively discussions about current ethical issues that the students themselves identify as interesting and important. I also wanted to help them learn about ethics by actively participating in a high–level conversation with their peers, guided but not dominated by members of the faculty and those with professional expertise. Student participation has been great. We have a core of about half a dozen students who plan the events, and audience turnout has usually been good.”

Ian MacMullen, faculty adviser to the program and assistant dean of Arts & Sciences

“Altogether, the speakers have been extremely engaging. The stem cell event stands out in my mind. The panel members, who represented a variety of viewpoints on the issues, presented their opinions skillfully and helped to foster a stimulating discussion. Ethics nights provide a unique opportunity for both undergraduates and graduates from various disciplines to come together and generate dialogue about important ethical issues. There isn’t another opportunity quite like this on campus.”

Kristin Castillo, class of ‘06, member of the student organizing committee

“I am an ethics major in Arts & Sciences, and I got in touch with the Center after my advisor received an e-mail asking if anyone had an interest in the student subcommittee. I had a chance to work with professors from all over the campus as well as other students; it was a unique opportunity to educate them and myself, and to become more involved. The Center is wonderful about letting students take leadership roles. It is incredible—willing to support us in whatever way it can.”

Geneva Brundage, class of ‘07 and member of the student organizing committee