TRS6202 - Social Ethics

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

1 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of key issues in contemporary social ethics
2 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the responses of some theologians to these issues
3 Identify theological resources from scripture, tradition and contemporary writings and bring these to bear in discussion of these issues
4 Critically analyse and evaluate the arguments of various parties in these contentious areas

Content:

A range of issues in social ethics will be introduced and discussed, which may include (for example):

• the relationship between morality and law
• the nature and limitation of state power
• citizenship and the nature of civil society
• politics in modernity and postmodernity
• liberalism and communitarianism
• practices of social criticism
• economics and business ethics
• globalization and consumerism
• the Just(ifiable) War traditions
• non-violence
• criminal justice
• international law and authority
• humanitarian intervention, development and aid

Learning and Teaching Information:

The course will be taught in plenary sessions which will make use of a blend of teaching and learning methods. These will normally include: lecture-style presentations by the tutor; seminar-style discussion of a particular topic; informal prepared presentations by students, followed by discussion; other exercises as appropriate to material and group. Guidance on reading in preparation for each session and activity will be given; and learning will be supported where appropriate by VLE and other electronic resources. Guidance on research and essay-writing will be embedded in the learning and teaching process throughout the module; and may also be supported by tutorial guidance on essay plans and feedback on the Semester 1 essay.

Lectures/Seminars
Contact Hours 40
Number of Goups 1

Assessment: