PP2RE2: Moral Philosophy Essay Module

Module Provider:

Philosophy

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

I (Intermediate)

Terms in which taught:

Autumn and Spring

Module Convenor:

Pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

PP2RE1

Modules excluded:

Current from:

2005/6

Aims:
An assessed essay of 2,000 words in which the student will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the material covered in the associated lecture module, and the ability to write in a way which displays clarity, balance and depth. The mark taken for this purpose will be the better of two marks for two such essays done during the year.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Students will demonstrate analytical and critical skills, as well as a basic knowledge and understanding of the material covered in the associated lecture module, in an essay of 2,000 words.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
Year to year, there may be variation as to whether the meta-ethical views or the normative theories are discussed first. In whatever sequence, however, the topics to be discussed will include the following questions. Can moral judgements be plausibly construed as descriptions of the judger's attitudes? Are moral judgements incapable of being true? Do moral judgements have a necessary connection to motivation? What ways are there of arguing against a proposed moral principle? Is there any form of consequentialist ethics that is plausible? Was Kant correct to think that an act is morally right if and only if the agent could will that acts of that kind be performed universally? Is morality rightly thought to be composed of principles that no reasonable and well-motivated person could reject? Should we reject all known proposals of a single overarching moral principle in favour of some more pluralistic account of morality?

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The format for this module contains lectures and supervisions. Students are encouraged to be active in all classes, asking questions and trying to answer the questions posed by others. Handouts are given for this module, including reading lists and sample questions.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Relative Percentage of Coursework: 100%
Requirements for a pass
40%

Reassessment arrangements
Re-submission of essay in August/September.