Philosophy 106: Essay Topics 3

Give as complete a characterization as you can of what Nietzsche means by “good” (i.e. noble) and what he means by “bad.”  What do you think of this characterization?  What implications does it have to your own moral framework?

What, according to Nietzsche, is the origin of guilt, or bad conscience?  How is this related to what Nietzsche thinks are our natural instincts of cruelty?  Do you think that this is an accurate analysis?  Why or why not?

Explain what you think is the core of Existentialist philosophy.  Why does Sartre think that “Christian Existentialism” is an oxymoron?  How do the themes of anguish, abandonment, and despair relate to Sartre’s philosophy?  What—if any—moral standard can Existentialism uphold?

Describe the “different voice” that Carol Gilligan insists should be heard with respect to ethical debates.  Give an example of a situation where that different voice might come to a very different ethical conclusion compared to traditional (i.e. masculine) moralities.  Do you agree that personal relationships sometimes should take precedence over the rule of law?  What are some potential problems with this position?

How is Buddhist ethics significantly different (if at all) from that of the Western tradition?  Where do they come together?  Do you find Buddhist ethics more satisfying in any respect than a Western approach?  What are its potential shortcomings?  How might they be resolved?

Using two or more of the philosophers we have discussed thus far, present a concrete moral situation, and compare and contrast what their respective attitudes might be.  Who would you be more inclined to agree with?  Give reasons!