The Center for Reducing Suffering is launching the first edition of our Intro to Suffering-Focused Ethics (SFE) Course. Applications are open through June 7.

What this is

A free, 6-week online program introducing the core ideas, arguments, and practical implications of suffering-focused ethics — the family of moral views that prioritizes reducing suffering, especially intense suffering, over creating additional happiness.

Suitable both for newcomers exploring SFE and those already familiar with the ideas. The course aims to build a stronger community of people thinking carefully about effective suffering reduction.

Curriculum

• Week 1: SFE — What and Why?
• Week 2: Happiness and Suffering
• Week 3: Implausible, or Just Unfashionable? (objections to SFE)
• Week 4: Many Paths to SFE (different moral views supporting prioritizing suffering reduction)
• Week 5: Reducing Suffering I — Big Picture
• Week 6: Reducing Suffering II — Next Steps

Logistics

• Format: Weekly 90-minute facilitated discussion sessions in small cohorts, plus 2-3 hours of weekly readings
• Dates: July 13 – August 23, 2026, with an end-of-course event the week of August 24
• Cost: Free
• Optional weekly Q&A sessions with experts
• Optional final project (memo, blog post, video, paper) with facilitator feedback

Apply

• Course overview
• Application form

Deadlines:

• Participants: June 7, 2026
• Facilitators (small stipend, mostly confirmed but a few spots may open): May 31, 2026

Questions? Contact us at courses@reducingsuffering.org