Special Questions In Social Ethics

Module description

This module is structured into three parts:

1. Social and Relational approaches to Ethics
2. Political Ethics and Values
3. Planetary Ethics

 

The module begins by introducing students to an overview of political ethics and social ethics that will underpin the module. The first part of the module will consider social and relational ethics and how these approaches play into ethical decision making. We will then spend three weeks exploring political ethics and values. The module ends with a consideration of planetary and environmental ethics. The topics covered within this module will enable students to reflect and engage with key issues in social, political and planetary ethics.

 

Assessment details

One 3-hour written exam (100%)

For Semester 1 Study Abroad Students only: One 4,000 word essay in lieu of exam (100%)

Educational aims & objectives

The aims of this module are to:

• Deeper understanding of the nature and range of ‘social ethics’
• Reflective engagement with key issues in social ethics, including justice, inequality, meritocracy, social exclusion, the exercise of power and the use of violence
• Critical engagement with key theorists in social ethics
• Self-critical reflection on one’s own social values and view of what counts as a good society. 

Learning outcomes

Generic skills:

• Ability to analyse texts and arguments
• Ability to summarise and present arguments
• Ability to plan and present an argument on a set topic under exam conditions

 

Module-specific skills:

• Familiarity with the nature and range of ‘social ethics’
• Understanding of some key debates, approaches and theorists in social ethics
• Development of a critical sense of the relevance of social ethics for contemporary social and political issues
• Greater self-awareness about one’s own social values.

Teaching pattern

Two-hour classes over ten weeks

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.