GN145 Crisis and Conscience (3 cr.)

This course explores pressing global and local challenges—such as climate change, pandemics, social injustice, and technological disruption—through the lens of moral and creative responses. Using case studies, philosophical inquiry, reflective dialogue, and solution-oriented projects, students examine how character and conscience inform decision-making in complex situations. The course also cultivates key career-readiness competencies, including critical thinking, collaboration, and equity and inclusion, preparing students to engage with the future ethically and effectively.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze contemporary and historical crises identifying central ethical questions and the perspectives of affected individuals and communities

2. Evaluate real or proposed crisis responses, assessing their strengths and weaknesses through the lenses of justice, empathy, and moral responsibility.

3. Apply practical wisdom and virtues to create ethical, actionable solutions to crises, demonstrating responsible leadership.

4. Collaborate in teams to design and present crisis response strategies, demonstrating shared responsibility, inclusive dialogue, and respectful communication.

5. Reflect on their developing character and readiness to address future crises, identifying strengths, areas for growth, and commitments to ethical action.