HUM2166 Ethics II

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Ethics II course provides a comprehensive exploration of advanced ethical concepts and frameworks, focusing on the application of ethical theories to contemporary moral dilemmas. Designed for students and professionals engaged in various fields, the course examines the intersection of ethics with real-world issues such as business practices, healthcare, technology, and environmental sustainability. Through a combination of theoretical insights and practical case studies, participants will develop the critical skills necessary to navigate complex ethical challenges with integrity and responsibility.

As the landscape of ethics continues to evolve in response to societal changes, participants will engage with emerging trends such as globalization, technological advancements, and shifting cultural norms. The course emphasizes the importance of ethical engagement and collaboration, encouraging participants to reflect on their values and responsibilities in an interconnected world. By the end of the course, individuals will be equipped with the knowledge and skills required to make informed ethical decisions and promote ethical practices within their professional and personal lives.

Key Points 

1. Foundational Ethical Theories: This key point covers the fundamental ethical theories that serve as the basis for moral reasoning, including consequentialism, deontology, virtue ethics, and care ethics. Participants will explore how these theories provide different lenses for evaluating ethical dilemmas and making moral choices.
2. Ethical Relativism and Universalism: Participants will examine the tension between ethical relativism and universalism, focusing on the implications of cultural diversity for moral principles. This section will encourage participants to consider the importance of cultural sensitivity in ethical decision-making while grappling with the concept of universal ethical standards.
3. Business Ethics and Corporate Responsibility: This key point addresses the ethical obligations of businesses, exploring concepts such as corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ethical leadership. Participants will learn how to navigate ethical dilemmas in the business context and the importance of promoting ethical practices within organizations.
4. Ethical Issues in Healthcare: Focusing on the healthcare sector, this key point examines ethical complexities such as informed consent, patient autonomy, and resource allocation. Participants will engage with real-world case studies to understand the moral dilemmas faced by healthcare professionals and the ethical principles that guide their decisions.
5. Environmental Ethics and Sustainability: This section highlights the ethical implications of environmental issues, emphasizing the moral responsibility individuals and organizations have toward the planet. Participants will explore key concepts related to sustainability and conservation, examining how ethical decision-making can address pressing environmental challenges.
6. The Role of Technology in Ethics: Participants will analyze the ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and data privacy. This key point will emphasize the need for ethical awareness and responsibility in the development and implementation of technology, highlighting the potential consequences for individual rights and societal values.

Core Learning Outcomes

• Analyze Advanced Ethical Theories: Understand and apply ethical theories, including consequentialism, deontology, virtue ethics, and care ethics, to evaluate complex moral dilemmas.
• Evaluate Ethical Relativism and Universalism: Critically assess the balance between cultural sensitivity and universal ethical standards in ethical decision-making.
• Apply Business Ethics and Corporate Responsibility: Navigate ethical challenges within the business sector, promoting ethical practices and corporate social responsibility.
• Understand Ethical Issues in Healthcare: Apply ethical principles to healthcare dilemmas, including informed consent, patient autonomy, and resource allocation.
• Engage in Environmental Ethics and Sustainability: Explore the ethical obligations of individuals and organizations toward environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
• Assess Ethical Challenges in Technology: Recognize the ethical implications of emerging technologies, ensuring responsible and ethical use of advancements in AI, data privacy, and beyond.