The main objectives of the course:
For the Comparative and Normative Ethics Segment:
Becoming conversant with the major classical and contemporary positions within ethical theory.
Distinguishing between the unique ethical worldviews of major religious traditions.
Recognizing the ethical assumptions of major types of social developmental positions.
Becoming critically aware of contemporary cultural issues and their ethical bases and implications.
For the Applied Ethics Segment:
5. Understanding the ethical factors entailed in scientific and technological innovation.
6. Becoming aware of diverse biomedical options and their consequences affecting human and animal life.
7. Recognizing significant ethical aspects of legal interpretation and application.
8. Critically evaluating the ethical aspects of political and economic policies.
Who will benefit from the course?
The course could benefit those who wish to gain an entire Diploma related to the fields of comparative and applied ethics. It could also benefit those who may wish to focus on either comparative or applied ethics—and to thus do only the respective Certificate course which appeals to their interest (“Comparative and Normative Ethics” or “Applied Ethics”). Finally, the course will also provide “elective” options for those who wish to focus on one or other aspect of the eight modules of the course. This may be especially useful for Xavier’s students who wish to gain Honours’ course credits.