Topics in Moral Psychology: Philosophy of Hope and Aspiration

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course is an introduction to the contemporary philosophical literature on hope and aspiration. The first half of the course will examine the nature and normativity of hope, with special attention to the role of hope in structuring human agency, building moral relationships, and facilitating social or political progress. The second half of the course will turn to aspiration in the context of pursuing strenuous, long-term personal goals. In particular, we will examine whether it is rational to make transformative choices, persevere against the odds, honor sunk costs, and make backup plans to safeguard potential failures.