Traditionally, many of the topics used to teach introductory and applied ethics courses are highly politicized and polarizing, such as abortion, capital punishment, and euthanasia. However, this method of teaching can lead to students being unwilling to come to the discussion with an open mind. The author suggests an alternative approach that draws on topics and case studies related to sustainability and climate change. The topics invite students to think about their personal ethics by examining food consumption, transportation choices, and energy use, and it also connects to specific policy actions in our community and at the national level. The course incorporates basic ethical and critical thinking skills, and asks the students to examine complex ethical situations without relying on preconcieved notions or opinions.
