Undergraduate Module Descriptor

PHL3077: Bioethics: DNA-technologies, Ethics and Human Identity

This module descriptor refers to the 2020/1 academic year.

Module Aims

This module aims to:

  • familiarise you with the history of, and different positions, theories and problems in current bioethics;
  • familiarise you with ethical issues of genetics, stem cell research and issues of social and cultural identity, through engagement with applied case studies;
  • advance your ability to analyse texts, criticize, empirical and philosophical arguments and reflect on your own preferences in making arguments and your ideas of right and wrong.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. demonstrate in-depth knowledge of a range of key topics in bioethics
2. understand and apply different empirical and theoretical perspectives in bioethics
3. critically appraise forms of argument on ethical issues from different philosophical and sociological perspectives
Discipline-Specific Skills4. analyse and critique arguments in moral philosophy and social ethics
5. critically engage with both abstract and practical ethical issues
Personal and Key Skills6. write well-argued scholarly essays
7. construct detailed normative arguments
8. apply different forms of writing
9. express your own thoughts and ideas at different levels of abstraction in discussion and writing
10. demonstrate the ability to work independently, within a limited time frame, and without access to external sources, to complete a specified task.