The course examines both the theoretical and practical bases for decision making in actual situations. Decisions are generally justified by reliance on ethical theories, but they also reflect personal values internalized over many years. Simple issues can be dealt with rather easily. But entrance into the world of adulthood and, especially, the world of work introduces levels of complexity far more difficult to resolve. For in addition to responding to our personal sense of obligation, we must take into account the legitimate and at times conflicting obligations to family, friends, employers, clients, customers, - and today, even the environment. But decision making is not just a question of balancing competing interests. There are financial, economic, psychological and social pressures that may well be brought to bear on the decision making process. This course addresses these many issues recognizing full well that what a person 'says' they would do while sitting in the comfort of their easy chair is in reality quite different from what they might 'actually do' in real life. The course requires many readings. But it will also be very interactive and participative. That is, there will be significant use of case studies, hypotheticals, and guest speakers to highlight just how complex decision making becomes in the real world.