Course content

What is morality? What is happiness? How should we live? What is a just society? Do obligations and norms conflict with our freedom? Is there a way in which to solve cultural and value conflicts? By starting out from such ethical questions, this course gives an introduction to the tradition of Western ethical theories. Various normative ethical theories will be studied, like natural law theory, utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics. The course will focus on the interactive relationship between ethical theory and moral practice. Students will learn to apply theories to practical problems and to criticize and evaluate theories in the light of their implications for practice.

Learning outcome

Be able to explain the strenghts and weaknesses of central ethical theories. Ability to apply central ethical theories and concepts to concrete cases/situations. Ability to criticise and adjust ethical theories and concepts from the point of view of well-considered moral judgements of concrete problems. Ability to argue for and against moral judgements, including one’s own.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, groups and self-study. In order to sit the exam, students must submit and get approved one written assignment (4-8 pages, 12-point Times New Roman, 1.5 line spacing.) The written assignment is only given in the semester when the subject is taught, but is valid for this and the subsequent semester.Evaluation by essay and four-hour written exam (no syllabus materials permitted). The written exam aims to a greater extent to test breadth of knowledge. Both parts are weighted equally in the final grade. Both parts of the form of assessment must be given a pass grade. In case of retakes, students must redo both exams. Essay is written on the basis of the written assignment after feedback from group leader/supervision, and should be 6-10 pages long. 2 copies to be submitted before 2 p.m.to the Department Office. (see examination dates for date), front page: course code, date, candidate number.

Compulsory assignments

• One approved written exercise

Recommended previous knowledge

None

Required previous knowledge

None

Course materials

Piers Benn: Ethics (UCL Press, 1998) + articles handed out in class.

Credit reductions