University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: (subject to sufficient student demand). Non-graduating distance-learning students only.

Planned timetable: No traditional classes: e-learning module.

'Ethical Issues' provides an accessible and comprehensive introduction to the philosophical significance of the most pressing moral problems of today, e.g. euthanasia, world poverty, and the moral status of animals and the environment; as well as a guide to the rival theoretical approaches used to reflect upon these issues: consequentialism, Kantian ethics, virtue theories, and moral skepticism. The module will also address meta-ethical questions concerning the metaphysical and epistemological status of moral claims and judgements (are there moral facts? Is ethical knowledge obtainable?)

Relationship to other modules

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take PY1901 or take PY1101 or take PY1103 or take PY1105 or take PY1011

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Via Moodle - weekly 1-hour scheduled live tutorial chat.

Scheduled learning hours: 15

Guided independent study hours: 185

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 1 or more essays totaling no more than 4,500 words

Personnel

Module teaching staff: TBC