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PLB1005 - Moral Studies: Contemporary Ethical Issues

6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL

Undergraduate Faculty of Arts

Leader: TBA

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

This subject aims to provide students with a basic understanding of the major approaches to ethical theory, in both Western and Eastern traditions, and to develop students' ability to critically examine various key issues in applied ethics. The subject begins with an explanation of the nature of reasoning in ethics, and shows how such reasoning can help to resolve certain practical issues. We will discuss utilitarian and non-utilitarian ethical theories offered by various philosophers in both Western and Eastern traditions. The subject will then draw on these theories and perspectives in order to examine a range of issues in applied ethics.

Assessment

Two expository exercises (500 words each): 20%
Essay (2000 words): 40% Examination (1500 words): 40%

Contact hours

3 hours per week