Module PHLM006 for 2020/1
- Overview
- Aims and Learning Outcomes
- Module Content
- Indicative Reading List
- Assessment
Postgraduate Module Descriptor
PHLM006: Contemporary Ethics
This module descriptor refers to the 2020/1 academic year.
Module Aims
This module aims to give you a broad understanding of present-day discussions in philosophical ethics.
It covers concepts such as responsibility, meaningfulness, power, and self-understanding as a moral agent via topical ethical issues arising from the global scope of interlinkages between knowledge, technologies, power, and care. Case studies will look at genetics and regenerative medicine, artificial intelligence and communication technologies, forms of violence and justice, happiness and virtues.
The aims of this module are twofold, to equip you with the philosophical knowledge to participate in ongoing debates, and to advance your knowledge about current thought concerning ethics and how human nature is understood.
You will gain a good understanding of topical questions in philosophical ethics in theory and practice. We will discuss topical subjects in small groups and you will practice presenting arguments. The writing of short review essays will advance your ability to summarize arguments succinctly.
You will be guided to write one article-length essay on a theme of your choice from the course.
| On successfully completing the programme you will be able to: | |
|---|---|
| Module-Specific Skills | 1. Demonstrate solid knowledge and understanding of current theories and problems in philosophical ethics 2. Demonstrate understanding of the methodological and conceptual problems of applied ethics 3. Present your own analyses of the implications of theories on pressing ethical debates of our time. |
| Discipline-Specific Skills | 4. Demonstrate a high level of knowledge about ethical theory and its application 5. Demonstrate sound knowledge of different types of philosophical ethics |
| Personal and Key Skills | 6. Demonstrate capacity to conduct research independently 7. Demonstrate aptitude for succinct oral presentations to groups 8. Write reflective academic review and research essays |
