Political Philosophy
PHIL 278
Spring 2027
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01
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The so-called argument from marginal cases/species overlap was used by early animal liberationists like Peter Singer and Tom Regan to argue for animal equality in various forms. Even today, this argument has retained an important place within the mainstream animal ethics literature, being used by many philosophers to point out what they take to be the irrationality of speciesist thinking and practices. But this embrace of the argument hasn¿t been without controversy, and in recent years has come under fire particularly from philosophers of disability, who have criticized (among other things) the argument¿s comparison of animals and humans living with severe cognitive disability. In short: the argument would seem to try to get animals in view by taking disabled persons -- and their humanity -- out of view, and these disability theorists have called on animal ethicists to do better. This course is an exploration of this critical intersection of animal ethics and the philosophy of disability literature. As such, we will engage both theoretical and applied questions, including questions about ¿disability,¿ ¿humanity,¿ and ¿animality¿; on the role such concepts have played in our ethical thinking; and on whether (and, if so, how) they should continue to do so. We will also look at the phenomenon of dehumanization in connection with disability, both asking what it is to dehumanize others, and evaluating different patterns of response by philosophers and activists alike. In addition to reading assignments and your participation in class meetings and exercises, your learning will be supplemented by documentary film(s), writing assignments and feedback, pop reading quizzes, and partner conversations. There are no prerequisites for this course, though priority will be given to Animal Studies minors. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS PHIL |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Human Rights Advocacy Minor)(Philosophy) |
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