This course is intended to survey the western, European tradition of philosophical writings on morality and ethics, with a view to learning about the historical development of our contemporary ethical views, the structure of different ethical positions, and the strengths and weaknesses of different philosophical approaches to morality. This is by no means an exhaustive treatment of the subject, but it will prepare students for further study of philosophical ethics, as well as provide invaluable background to the intellectual traditions of the West over the last 2500 years.