Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

Synopsis

This unit examines a variety of ethical issues concerning the beginning and end of life, such as the morality of abortion, infanticide, and causing death. The unit also deals with the ethical problems raised by new reproductive research and biomedical technologies, such as embryo experimentation, cloning, genetic counselling, genetic therapy and genetic engineering. There will be discussion of a range of philosophical problems central to these issues, including the sanctity of life doctrine, notions of potentiality, the nature of personhood, the acts/omissions distinction, and the definition of death.

Assessment

Written work (9000 words): 100%

Chief examiner(s)

Assoc Prof Justin Oakley

Contact hours

One 2.5 hour seminar per week

Prerequisites

APG4393 or equivalent

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.arts.monash.edu.au/bioethics/pgrad/units/chb4102.php