Course content

The course deals with central topics in normative ethics and political philosophy. Moral issues related to our role as individuals and citizens are central in this course. In the course we discuss questions such as: What is freedom in a political context? Who should have the chance to exercise political power and to participate in political decision-making processes? Do we have special obligations towards our own family, certain groups, or society? What rights should we have in relation to other citizens and in relation to public authorities? The course provides a broad introduction to to theories that seek to answer this type of questions.

Learning outcome

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge:

• Has knowledge of central questions and theories in normative ethics
• Has knowledge of central questions and theories in political philosophy
• Has knowledge of relevant connections between approaches in political philosophy and approaches in normative ethics
• Has knowledge of important similarities and differences between different theories in political philosophy and normative ethics

Skills:

• Can assess strengths and weaknesses of central positions in political philosophy and normative ethics
• Can apply normative political or ethical theories to particular issues
• Can give an account, orally and in writing, of the theories taught in the course

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars and self-study. The lectures present the main lines of the curriculum and provide an overview of the central themes of the course. In seminars, particular cases are discussed in view of the theories covered by the curriculum.

In order to sit the exam, an approved oral group presentation is required. For more information on the obligatory activity, see Blackboard. The obligatory activity can only be approved the semester the course is taught, but is valid for this and the subsequent semester.

Compulsory assignments

• Approved obligatory activity

Recommended previous knowledge

A basic knowledge of ethics and political philosophy from the history of philosophy (especially Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke and Kant) is an advantage, but not a requirement.

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

The required reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions