Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ethique
In an increasingly complex world, grappling with personal, social, and civic dilemmas, understanding the foundations of ethical thought has never been more crucial. Coursera’s “Le Bien, le Juste, l’Utile. Introduction aux éthiques philosophiques” (The Good, the Just, the Useful. Introduction to Philosophical Ethics) offers a compelling journey through the major currents of ethical reflection. Though presented in French, the course is a valuable resource for English speakers thanks to its comprehensive English and Chinese subtitles.
This course masterfully guides learners from the ancient wisdom of Aristotle to the challenging ideas of Kant, Bentham, and Derrida, providing a rich philosophical exploration of contemporary ethical debates. The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, beginning with Aristotle’s virtue ethics and its modern interpretations, then delving into Kant’s deontological ethics and its contemporary developments. The course doesn’t shy away from consequentialism and utilitarianism, dedicating significant time to Bentham and the evolution of his ideas through John Stuart Mill, even touching upon practical applications.
What truly sets this course apart is its exploration of less commonly discussed ethical frameworks, such as the ‘ethics of gift’ with thinkers like Bergson, Levinas, and Derrida, and a concluding lesson that synthesizes the various currents and introduces figures like Spinoza and Confucian ethics. Each lesson is supported by video lectures, suggested readings from primary texts (available in PDF), bibliographies for further study, and multiple-choice quizzes to reinforce learning. The active discussion forums are a highlight, offering a space for learners to engage with the material and each other, facilitated by instructors who are responsive to questions.
While the primary language is French, the excellent subtitles make the content accessible to a global audience. The depth of philosophical inquiry, coupled with the structured learning path and interactive elements, makes this course highly recommendable for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of ethical reasoning. It’s an intellectual adventure that equips you with the tools to navigate the moral complexities of our time.
**Recommendation:** Highly recommended for students of philosophy, ethics, or anyone interested in the foundational principles that guide human behavior and societal structures. The effort to overcome the language barrier is richly rewarded with profound insights.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ethique