Is it ethically acceptable to use animals for food or research? How should we understand the moral implications of genetically modified plants? What does sustainable development actually mean, and what responsibility do we have for the ecosystems we depend on? In this course, you will work with these questions and many others.
By studying both ethical theories and real cases, you will learn how ethical arguments develop and how they influence everything from everyday decisions to major policies.
Theories that help you understand complex dilemmas
The course offers a broad introduction to key theories within environmental ethics and animal ethics. You will examine different perspectives on the relationship between humans and nature, from anthropocentrism to sentientism, biocentrism and ecocentrism.
You also learn how ethical theories are used to discuss the role of animals in society, from perspectives that prioritise human interests to theories that defend animal rights. Special attention is given to issues linked to global warming, genetically modified organisms and the moral meaning of sustainability.
Skills you develop during the course
Throughout the course, you will learn to describe and understand concepts, theories and arguments within environmental and animal ethics. You will practise analysing ethical problems and formulating your own well reasoned positions.
You also reflect on how your own values shape the way you view ethical questions, helping you develop an open and critical attitude. This is especially important when working with issues that involve many perspectives and often competing moral claims.
Course content
The course provides a broad overview of theories within both environmental ethics and animal ethics. You will explore questions about sustainability, societal change, the cultural roles of animals and the ethical implications of technologies such as genetic modification. Case studies form a central part of the course, allowing theories to be linked directly to real situations and practical dilemmas.
Teaching and learning activities
Teaching includes reading and analysing texts, group work, writing assignments and active participation in seminar discussions. Lectures support the material, and in some parts of the course web based resources may also be used. In addition, students are expected to engage in independent study between sessions.
The language of instruction is English.