Course content

What is ethics? What constitutes a good life? Is ethics simply a reflection of our emotions and of convention, or may conceptions of right and wrong be justified? Can there be a solution when cultures and values clash? How is ethics related to facts? This course provides a systematic approach to ethical issues of the above kind. The emphasis is on contemporary theories and principles within normative ethics. Key topics to be addressed: Relativism and realism; subjectivism and objectivism; the "is"-"ought" gap; determinism and free will; Deontology (Kantianism); Utilitarianism; rights-based ethics; virtue ethics and ethics of care; feelings and ethics; and the relationship between theoretical and applied ethics, in the light of contemporary fields such as the ethics of war, medical ethics and animal ethics.

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

The candidate has knowledge of

• basic issues within normative ethics and metaethics
• key ethical theories, principles and concepts

Skills

The candidate has the ability to

• use key ethical theories, principles and concepts in the field of applied ethics
• argue in an ethical manner, including scrutiny of own viewpoint.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, groups and self-study. In order to sit the exam, students must submit and get approved one written assignment (1600-3200 words, 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.

Compulsory assignments

• One approved written exercise

Recommended previous knowledge

Examen philosophicum

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

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

Credit reductions