TRS4202 - Ethics - Philosophical and Theological

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Identify and distinguish the major ethical theories in Western ethical thinking, i.e., relativism, cultural relativism, utilitarianism, virtue theory, normative ethics, subjectivism, objectivism, formalism, etc;
Demonstrate an understanding of the strengths and limitations of ethical theories and show how they might be useful in current ethical discussions and reflection
Assess the strengths and weaknesses of approaching ethics from a religious standpoint, and suggest whether faith and worship change the way in which ethical questions might be approached and assessed;
Demonstrate an understanding of the foundational methodologies that underpin ethical analysis and discourse in a selection of non-Christian traditions

Content:

Learners will be introduced to the foundational concepts of ethics as construed in the philosophical sense as well as the theological. A range of themes and topics will be explored, with a particular focus upon the differing but interrelated models of morality, for instance, morality as law, as inner conviction, as emotivism, virtue, conscience and faithfulness.

Other themes which will be explored will include, for example, cultural and subjective relativism, the sources of ethics, including Christian ethics, virtue ethics, conscience, utilitarian and consequentialist interpretations of the good, as well as the role of tradition and the Bible in moral decision making. Students will also be given the opportunity to engage with the debate on the specificity of Christian morality, in order to determine what, if anything, is unique about Christian ethics. They will also be given the opportunity to reflect on how common worship might shape moral character and assist in the quest to be virtuous. The concluding sessions of the module will focus upon the methodologies adopted in African, Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic ethics.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The module 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; formal assessment by presentation to the rest of the group; 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 Moodle 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 drafts if required.

Lecture
Contact hours: 20
Intended Group size: 35

Seminar, group work, tutorial, etc
Contact hours: 20
Intended Group size: 3-35

Guided independent study
Hours: 160

Assessment: