The Northern Plains Ethics Institute at NDSU recently launched a redesigned website, www.plainsethics.com, that includes many new features.

The new site provides information on the study of ethics and an extensive “Program and Resources” section that includes publications from the institute, various online resources and links to other noteworthy organizations arranged by subject matter. To provide access to a larger audience, the site also features video of recent events sponsored by the institute.

A new feature of the site is the “Rumination Room” that utilizes Facebook’s discussion capabilities. Every month, the institute will provide a new topic for visitors to “ruminate.” Everyone can then participate in an online dialogue on the issue via Facebook. Dennis Cooley, associate director of the institute and associate professor of philosophy, will moderate the discussions.

The mission of the institute is to promote democratic participation in social and ethical issues affecting the Red River Valley and beyond. The hope is the new site will be a starting point for those who want to learn more about ethics by increasing participation and stimulating engaged discussion about how ethics affects everyday living.

 For more information about the website, contact Kathleen Cox at 1-5121 or kathleen.t.cox@ndsu.edu.