700.603.41
Introduction to Ethical Theory
Location
Internet
Term
1st Term
Department
Berman Institute (Bioethics)
Credit(s)
3
Academic Year
2024 - 2025
Instruction Method
Synchronous Online
Wednesday, 3:30 - 6:20pm
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
Yes
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Contact Name
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Resources
Prerequisite
None
Explores the relationship between philosophical ethical theory and the practical world of bioethics. Examines the classical accounts of moral obligation and virtue in the context of a variety of contemporary bioethical problems. Presents the distinction between individual bioethics and collective bioethics, with the goal of determining how the theoretical grounding for these fields differ. Answers both methodological and substantive motivating questions: First, how does theory contribute to bioethical investigations? Second, does reflection on ethical theory tell us what to do concerning particular, bioethical problems?
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Identify and articulate the theoretical underpinnings of particular moral claims
- Apply various theoretical tools to particular, concrete cases
- Identify the weaknesses of moral positions as a result of those positions' theoretical assumptions
- Defend a methodological position concerning the value and use of theory in bioethics
- Defend a substantive position concerning the correct moral theory
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
- 10% Participation
- 30% Weekly Argument Reconstructions
- 20% Midterm Paper
- 40% Final Exam
Enrollment Restriction
Enrollment priority given to MBE students
Please note: this is the virtual section of a course that is also offered onsite. Students committed to the modality for which they register.