Environmental and Animal Ethics, 7.5 credits

Main field of study

Course level

Advancement level

Course offered for

• Master´s Programme in Applied Ethics

Entry requirements

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of the course, students should be able to
− demonstrate deeper knowledge in ethics by studying issues in environmental and animal ethics,
− account for concepts, theories and problems within the field of environmental and animal ethics,
− analyse problems in environmental and animal ethics,
− be able to argue for a standpoint of their own regarding a few issues in environmental and animal ethics,
− demonstrate an open and critical attitude to positions and arguments in environmental and animal ethics.

Course content

This course covers the whole range of theories in environmental ethics from various forms of anthropocentrism to sentientism, biocentrism and ecocentrism. The key notion of sustainability is analysed. Moreover, the course covers the whole range of theories in animal ethics from those stressing human interests to those defending animal rights. Various kinds of uses of animals in society are discussed, including animal experimentation. Special attention is given to ethical issues raised by global warming and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Case studies play a central role.

Teaching and working methods

In the course students read and analyse texts, participate in group work, write papers and are actively involved in seminar discussions. In addition, lectures and guest lectures are offered. Work with web resources and visits at workplaces outside the university may also be provided. Language of instruction: English.

Examination

The course is examined by oral presentations and writing a paper.
Students who have failed an examination are normally allowed to retake it on two additional occasions, one of which should be arranged shortly after the first examination.

Grades

Other information

Department