The course "Moral Philosophy: Origins and Moral Theories" aims to provide students with a critical and in-depth understanding of the foundations of ethical reflection, through the historical and conceptual analysis of major moral theories. Its goal is to develop the ability to recognize and assess the various conceptions of the good, duty, and responsibility that have shaped Western thought, from its Greek origins to contemporary philosophy. By studying authors and movements such as Aristotle, Christian thought, Kantian ethics, and utilitarianism, students will be guided in acquiring theoretical tools to navigate moral debates and to critically reflect on the normative assumptions that underlie both individual and collective choices. The course also seeks to foster a philosophical awareness of the ethical dimension of human action, strengthening students' argumentative and interpretive skills in preparation for rigorous engagement with complex moral issues.
teacher profile teaching materials
Something extraordinary happens in a work of art: human beings prove capable of creating a new form, an original and unique reality, thereby generating beauty.
What makes it possible to generate beauty?
To answer this question, the course begins by reflecting on what it means for us to experience beauty; then, following Etienne Gilson’s analysis, it will offer a detailed overview of the so-called “arts of beauty,” in an effort to identify what characterizes the artistic experience and what makes it so unique.
G. Gilson, Materie e forme. Poietiche particolari delle arti maggiori, Morcelliana, Brescia 2023
Programme
Beauty in Life and ArtSomething extraordinary happens in a work of art: human beings prove capable of creating a new form, an original and unique reality, thereby generating beauty.
What makes it possible to generate beauty?
To answer this question, the course begins by reflecting on what it means for us to experience beauty; then, following Etienne Gilson’s analysis, it will offer a detailed overview of the so-called “arts of beauty,” in an effort to identify what characterizes the artistic experience and what makes it so unique.
Core Documentation
P. Fedrigotti, Concepire il bello, Orthotes, Napoli-Salerno 2026G. Gilson, Materie e forme. Poietiche particolari delle arti maggiori, Morcelliana, Brescia 2023
Attendance
Although attendance is optional, it is strongly recommendedType of evaluation
The final exam will consist of a written exam, in which students will be asked multiple-choice and open-ended questions covering the authors’ main theories and the classification of the texts. Online assignments completed prior to the exam will also be taken into account. Grades will be assigned by distinguishing between failing (1–17) and passing grades. A grade will be considered failing if the majority of responses are missing or contain serious gaps or errors. Within the passing grades, a range of grades from 18 to 30 will be assigned. Grades from 28 to 30 represent the highest possible grade, where the distinction is justified by minor shortcomings in non-substantive elements of the response, such as the development of the argument, the ability to reason, and the presentation of the content. In cases where the student demonstrates not only the optimal achievement of the objectives but also a distinctive ability in the articulation of philosophical discourse, the grade of 30/30 will be awarded with honors.