This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module provides a cross-cultural introduction and exploration of philosophical, religious and cultural traditions which have shaped and informed historical and contemporary ethical judgements and notions of the good life. From ancient Asian, Greek, Jewish, Christian and Islamic philosophies inspired by thinkers such as the Buddha, Plato, Jesus and Mohammed, to modern secular philosophies such as humanism and Marxism, humans have articulated a variety of approaches to ethics, politics, spirituality, and the relationship of the individual to society, in many cases developing legal frameworks for the regulation of issues of ethical concern in areas such as human rights, wealth distribution, medical ethics, the environment and human sexuality.
Total Contact Hours: 20
Private Study Hours: 130
Total Study Hours: 150
Main assessment methods
Essay (2,000 words) – 50%
Examination (2 hours) - 50%
Reassessment methods
Essay 3,000 words) – 100%
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate an understanding of the key values, worldviews, beliefs, assumptions and presuppositions which shape and inform specific ethical perspectives;
2 Provide an account of specific philosophical discussions related to ethics within one philosophical/religious tradition examined in this module;
3 Compare and contrast ethical approaches in two or more philosophical/religious traditions and/or contexts;
4 Demonstrate a general understanding of social construction theory and the influence historical, social and cultural factors may have on ethical judgement and reflection;
5 Apply these theoretical frameworks to the understanding of specific ethical judgements related to particular themes or issues.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate a capacity to engage with a variety of scholarly resources to extend the understanding, evaluate evidence and construct a persuasive argument;
2 Present information in an intelligent and coherent fashion in writing;
3 Present arguments in written form in a time-limited context.
4 Use basic electronic resources to further their research skills;
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
