Why Is Murder Wrong: Philosophical Foundations of Legal Ethics (Part 1)

In this first part of a two-part series, Professor Rabbi Michael Gold will explore the philosophical underpinnings of legal ethics, tracing the evolution of ethical thought from ancient Greece to the Enlightenment. Designed for attorneys seeking a deeper understanding of the ethical principles that shape modern legal practice, the course will examine key philosophical concepts and their relevance to contemporary legal dilemmas.

Professor Rabbi Gold will guide participants through insights into meta ethics, relative ethics, and universal ethics based on Aristotelian principles. The program will benefit lawyers at all career stages, enhancing their ability to navigate complex ethical situations and make informed decisions. Through an exploration of thinkers such as Socrates, Aristotle, Thomas Hobbes, and David Hume, attorneys will develop a richer understanding of the philosophical foundations that inform legal ethics.

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze the core concepts of metaethics and their application to legal ethical reasoning
2. Compare and contrast relative ethics theories, including social contract theory and ethical subjectivism, in the context of legal practice
3. Evaluate Aristotelian-based universal ethics and their influence on modern legal ethical frameworks
4. Apply philosophical ethical concepts to real-world legal dilemmas and decision-making processes
5. Develop critical thinking skills to address complex ethical issues in legal practice