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PHIL2830

Applied Ethics

10 Units 2000 Level Course

Not available in 2013

A systematic study of a major problem or major theme or major philosopher or group of philosophers, focused on value theory, ethics, socio-political philosophy.

Objectives Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate:
1) Knowledge and familiarity with the approaches taken and issues addressed by philosophers in the area of ethical theory
(2) Critical skills to deal with these issues and employ these approaches in their thinking about a range of topics in applied ethics.
Content The course will examine the relationship between ethical theory and practice. Some central ethical theories will be introduced, including utilitarianism, duty-based theories, and accounts of the moral importance of the person. These will be discussed in connection with a number of practical moral issues. Practical topics that may be discussed include abortion, euthanasia, infanticide, informed consent, medical experimentation and new reproductive technologies.
Replacing Course(s) PHIL3830 Applied Ethics
Transition Students who have successfully completed PHIL3830 are not permitted to enrol in PHIL2830
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge 10 units of PHIL courses at 1000 level, or 40 units of any courses at any level.
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Assessment Items
Other: (please specify) For most topics assessment will be by essays, an initial minor essay (about 1500 words) due about mid-semester and worth about 30% of total assessment, and a major essay (about 3500 words) due about the close of semester and worth about 70% of total assessment. The minor essay is designed to assess the student's grasp of basic concepts, familiarity with the relevant literature and ability to develop a focussed argued case, while the major essay requires extended application of these competencies to a suitable substantive topic. However, some topics may be examined in part through an examination, either a 1 to 1.5 hour examination in place of the minor essay, of the same value and aimed to examine the same competencies, or a 2 to 3 hour examination in place of the major essay, of the same value and designed to assess the same capacity to properly apply these competencies.
Contact Hours Lecture: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term