POLS 077. Practical Wisdom

What is practical wisdom (what Aristotle called "phronesis")? Is it necessary to enable people to flourish in their friendships, loving relations, education, work, community activities, and political life? What is the relevance of this Aristotelian concept for the choices people make in everyday life, and how does it contrast with contemporary Kantian, utilitarian, and emotivist theories of moral judgment and decision making? What does psychology tell us about the experience and character development necessary for practical wisdom and moral reasoning? And how do contemporary economic and political factors influence the development of practical wisdom?
Enrollment is limited and by permission of the instructor. Applications available from department office.

Prerequisite: Some background in philosophy or political theory.
Social sciences.
1 credit.
Catalog chapter: Political Science
Department website: http://www.swarthmore.edu/political-science

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