PHL2150

Ethics

(ART)

Jeanette Kennett

6 points + 2 hours per week + First semester + Clayton, Caulfield + Also available in Distance Education mode in every semester + Prerequisites: 6 points of first-year except with permission from course coordinator

Synopsis: This subject deals with some major debates in normative ethical theory. Normative theories are theories about what is of value and what acts are right. A major focus of discussion is the opposition between consequentialist theories, which judge rightness and wrongness solely in terms of consequences, and Kantian theory which judges rightness and wrongness according to whether the act is in accordance with duty. How do these theories account for the agent-centred reasons which arise from relations of love and friendship and which seem to have the potential to conflict with impartial moral requirements? Is there a limit to our obligation to minimise suffering and maximise happiness?

Assessment: Two exercises (750 words): 10% each + Essay (2000 words): 50% + Examination (1 hour): 30% + Students will have the option of replacing one or both of the exercises by participation in an on-line discussion via the portals interface