Introduction to ethics

What makes life good? Is it virtue or happiness? Duty to ourselves or others? Explore theories and systems that address the meaning of good and evil, right and wrong.

» Be the first to write a review.

» View full course outline

Key course information

Dates
20/09/11 - 06/12/11

Day(s)
Tue

Duration
12 weeks

Time
14:10 - 15:40

Fees
Full fee: £90
Senior fee: £51
Concession: £24

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

» View location

Course code
HP029

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

» Find another course in Humanities » Search all courses

Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

An exploration of the ideas of good and bad; rights and duties; freedom and justice. In essence this course asks what it is to live well, in an ethical sense. If someone is living well, what directions might they be going in, and what might they be leaving behind? How vital is love, or openness to the world, as opposed to reactive backing away from difference? These issues, together with the problems of the role of the state plays in ethical matters will be discussed in the light of ideas of philosophers such as Aristotle, Spinoza, Mill and MacIntyre.

What topics will we cover?

- an analysis of concepts such as goodness, justice, virtue
- specific conceptions of morality
- preliminary considerations of human nature in relation to socialisation and moral norms, activeness and reactivenesss, and rationality of co-operative behaviour (the prisoner's dilemma)
- specific conceptions of morality as presented by key figures such as Aristotle, Hume, Spinoza and J.S.Mill.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- recognise many of the basic principles involved in moral debate
- identify some of the ethical approaches of some key philosophers
- understand in greater detail which ethical questions are important
- reflect philosophically on ethical questions.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for those who have followed an introductory course, but those new to philosophy will also be welcome. Also an enthusiasm for learning as well as an open and critical mind will enhance your enjoyment and benefit from this course. On joining this course you should be able to read and comment upon extracts from a philosophical text. You should be prepared to discuss this reading in class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

A combination of lectures, group and class discussion.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.