This course introduces students to philosophical themes in ethics and aesthetics. We explore the Aristotelian ethical concept of virtue, and the modern version of ethics of care. In aesthetics, we examine the nature of art and craft and relate the work of knitting to both. We study the influences of geography, economics and the roles of women as these relate to knitting, and we learn to knit.

 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course students will be able to explain, orally and in writing, concepts of virtue ethics and ethics of care; compare Aristotle’s distinction of ars/techne with principles of the Arts and Crafts movement; evaluate the influences of geography, economics and roles of women in the activity of knitting in America; identify local sources of natural fiber for yarns; and apply the skills of Cast On, Knit, Purl, Cast Off to the production of a scarf or cowl.