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 aims to provide students with a basic understanding of ethical theory, as a foundation for their studies in bioethics. The unit outlines three main perspectives in normative ethics - Kantianism, Utilitarianism, and Virtue Ethics - and examines several key problems for each of these approaches. The unit also considers certain issues in meta-ethics, such as the question of whether moral judgements must be relative to individuals or cultures, or whether they can be objective.

Assessment

Written work (6000 words): 70%
Exam: 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Assoc. Prof. Justin Oakley

Contact hours

One 3 hour seminar per week

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

http://www.arts.monash.edu.au/bioethics/pgrad/units/chb5101.php