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Ethical Theory - PHI00082I

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  • Department: Philosophy
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Christopher Jay
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: I
  • Academic year of delivery: 2020-21

Module summary

The aim of this module is to introduce students to a number of central debates in ethical theory. We will begin by looking at theories of well-being, and considering whether happiness and/or the fulfilment of one’s desires can be considered a central component of the good life.

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

  • None

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations


Module will run

Occurrence Teaching cycle
A Spring Term 2020-21 to Summer Term 2020-21

Module aims

The aim of this module is to introduce students to a number of central debates in ethical theory. We will begin by looking at theories of well-being, and considering whether happiness and/or the fulfilment of one’s desires can be considered a central component of the good life. With these foundational considerations in hand, we move on to consider the structure of ethical theories more directly; theories such as ethical egoism, utilitarianism, deontological pluralism, contractualism, contractarianism, and rule-consequentialism. Finally, we will question whether the idea of a codifiable ethical theory is even possible, and what this entails for ethical theorising. Should we revert back to Aristotelian virtue-based thinking? Or even embrace the prospects of moral relativism, or moral nihilism?

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

—understand and explain a range of key problems, issues, and debates in ethical theory and express this understanding in clear, precise, and accessible terms

—develop and articulate ranges of alternative solutions to problems and issues in ethical theory in an open-minded way, drawing on module materials

—develop and articulate arguments for the alternative solutions considered in relation to problems and issues in ethical theory, drawing on module materials, identifying some points of weakness and some potential points for development

—make a judgement about what is the best view on a particular problem in ethical theory and argue in defence of this judgement

—identify some of their strengths and weaknesses by evaluating their own work in relation to departmental marking criteria

—apply simple strategies for improving their work, based on critical reflection, advice, and feedback

—critically engage with social, political, cultural, ethical, and value issues to contribute to the solution of key contemporary problems

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Essay		 N/A 70
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Ethical Theory		 N/A 30

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Essay		 N/A 70
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Ethical Theory		 N/A 30

Module feedback

Feedback on formative work will be returned within 2 weeks of submission, and by the end of term at the latest. Feedback on summative work will be returned within 4 weeks of the assessment deadline.

Indicative reading

Reading for this course will consist of a variety of contemporary and classical papers made available on the VLE.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.