This course will provide an introduction to thoughts of some ancient philosophers that form the philosophical foundations of ethics in the West. We will consider Plato’s account of justice for the individual, Aristotle’s understanding of virtue, the Stoic condemnation of emotion, and the Epicurean promotion of pleasure. Some attention will be given to the historical context in which the thoughts emerged, but our primary focus will be on philosophical issues that arise from conceptual exploration. As we consider the thoughts of Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, and the Epicureans, we will reflect on the nature of goodness, instrumental and inherent value, free will, and the problem of evil. No previous courses in philosophy are required.