HUM2391 Morals ll

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Morals II course provides an advanced exploration of moral philosophy, addressing contemporary ethical issues and the frameworks that guide moral reasoning. Designed for students seeking a deeper understanding of ethics in various contexts, this course examines the implications of moral theories for personal and societal decision-making.

By engaging with complex topics such as social justice, environmental ethics, and the role of technology, participants will develop critical thinking skills essential for navigating moral dilemmas in today’s world.

Key Points 

1. Foundations of Moral Philosophy: This key point delves into the major ethical theories, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics. It emphasizes how these frameworks provide a basis for understanding moral principles and guide ethical decision-making in diverse situations. By examining the strengths and weaknesses of each theory, students will learn to apply these concepts to real-world dilemmas.
2. Ethics of Technology and Innovation: This section explores the ethical implications of technological advancements, focusing on issues such as artificial intelligence, privacy, and data ethics. It highlights the responsibilities of technologists in ensuring that innovations serve the public good and do not infringe on individual rights. Students will analyze case studies that illustrate the intersection of technology and moral philosophy.
3. Social Justice and Moral Responsibility: This key point addresses the ethical considerations surrounding social justice, including distributive justice and the moral obligations to marginalized communities. It emphasizes the importance of equity, inclusivity, and advocacy in promoting social change. Students will engage with contemporary social issues and evaluate policies through an ethical lens.
4. Environmental Ethics and Sustainability: This section focuses on the moral relationship between humans and the environment, exploring concepts of sustainability and ecological justice. Students will learn about the ethical responsibilities of individuals and organizations in addressing environmental challenges. The discussion will include strategies for promoting sustainable practices and protecting natural resources.
5. Bioethics and Healthcare Ethics: This key point examines the ethical issues in healthcare, including patient autonomy, informed consent, and the moral dilemmas faced by medical professionals. It emphasizes the importance of ethical principles in guiding healthcare practices and policies. Case studies will be utilized to highlight the complexities of bioethical decision-making.
6. The Future of Moral Philosophy: This section explores emerging trends in moral philosophy and the ethical challenges posed by globalization, climate change, and technological advancements. It encourages students to think critically about the evolution of ethical frameworks and their relevance in addressing future moral dilemmas. Discussions will focus on how moral philosophy can adapt to the complexities of a rapidly changing world.

Core Learning Outcomes

• Apply Major Ethical Theories: Understand and apply ethical theories, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, to evaluate complex moral issues and make informed decisions.
• Analyze the Ethics of Technology: Assess the ethical responsibilities associated with technological advancements, including privacy, artificial intelligence, and data ethics, and understand the impact on society and individual rights.
• Engage with Social Justice and Moral Responsibility: Evaluate social justice issues and develop ethical approaches for advocating inclusivity, equity, and responsibility toward marginalized communities.
• Promote Environmental Ethics and Sustainability: Understand the ethical obligations toward environmental sustainability and implement strategies that address ecological challenges.
• Understand Bioethics and Healthcare Ethics: Analyze ethical principles in healthcare, addressing issues such as patient autonomy, informed consent, and ethical decision-making in complex medical situations.
• Explore Future Ethical Challenges: Engage critically with emerging trends in moral philosophy and evaluate how evolving ethical frameworks can address the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape.