Module description
This module offers students a critical introduction to the theoretical frameworks used in contemporary bioethics. In the first part of the module (weeks 1-3) we will critically discuss how the discipline of bioethics developed historically, introduce students to key questions in metaethics, and examine work in bioethics that applies general moral theories to analyze bioethical problems (‘applied ethics’).
The core of the module (weeks 3-9) will engage students in a critical analysis of methods and approaches that have been specifically developed in the context of bioethics, such as principlism, casuistry, narrative approaches, and feminist approaches to addressing bioethical issues. The final session of the module (week 10) will examine issues around agenda-setting and the framing of problems in bioethics.
Staff information
Dr Silvia Camporesi/Dr Gry Wester
Teaching pattern
Lectures incorporating discussion and presentation of case studies
Module assessment - more information
Coursework and examination