Social and Political Ethics

Aim

On completion of the course, the students should have acquired knowledge of concepts, theories and problems within the field of social and political ethics, - knowledge of concepts, theories and problems within the discussion about human rights, justice and liberty, - ability to describe and critically examine ethical problems and arguments in the discussion about human rights, justice and liberty, - capacity to argue for a chosen position in the discussion about social and political ethics, - capacity to evaluate and contextualize the arguments as such in policy-making and professional work, - ability to express an open and critical attitude.

Content

The course focuses on ethical theories and ethical problems relevant within the field of social and political ethics. One central topic is human rights. Another is the concept of social justice, its different interpretations, its connections to liberty and equality, and the various suggested ways of its implementation. Contemporary texts in this area are studied. The course also deals with problems of professional ethics in public administration. Students present a proposal for investigating a specific public policy (related with more general issues such as healthcare, social security, animal rights, affirmative action, and distribution of wealth).