Moral Reasoning and Bioethics (phl 440/540)

Moral Reasoning iand Bioethics is the basic course that examines the moral theories and viewpoints used in bioethical issues that range from health care policy to biotechnology. Although presented in the context of bioethical concerns, this course centers on moral theories and basic bioethical issues. It is required for the Bioethics Certificate.

After an introduction to the mechanics of this course, we launch a discussion of fundamentally important views in ethics, including discussions of the utilitarianism and the Kant's moral theory, as well as theories such as virtue ethics.

After an introduction to the mechanics of this course, we launch a discussion of fundamentally important views in ethics, including discussions of the utilitarianism and the Kant's moral theory, as well as theories such as virtue ethics.

We turn to the principle of autonomy, including informed consent and patient competence, essential parts of the bioethical theory called "principlism," which is fully covered.

Following our look at a principled approach, we evaluate an approach to moral reasoning based on the use of rules and practices. We also consider basic values in bioethics: veracity, privacy and confidentiality, and loyalty.

We finish examining of moral views by exploring at some other moral positions often relied on in moral decision-making: feminist ethics, care, and pragmatism. We also consider how moral theory is used in bioethics.

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Typically, an instructor will require frequent written assignments, perhaps twelve during the semester. A midterm and final is typically included, and are usually longer. Short assignments range from a long paragraph to about two pages. On the undergraduate level, this is a writing course, and so special University writing requirements apply. Assignments are typically posted, on Blackboard, for the entire class; students may be required to comment on assignments by others.

The text for this course is Principles of Biomedical Ethics by Beauchamp and Childress.

This course is taught by Professors DeMarco, Harvey and Robichaud.

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