This module will deal with a range of core issues in contemporary meta-ethics.  Topics covered will include the question of whether our moral judgements truly describe some feature of our decisions, actions and character;  the objectivity of moral judgements; whether our ordinary moral judgements might be radically mistaken; and what methods are appropriate for moral inquiry.

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

1.  Evaluate rival theories of the nature of moral truth.

2.  Understand a range of theories about the nature and role of moral judgements.

3. Offer arguments for and against different metaethical theories, including being able to critically assess their own views. 

One 2000 word essay (45%) [assesses all three Learning Outcomes]

One Take-Home Exam of 2000 words (45%)  [assesses all three Learning Outcomes]

Tutorial Participation (10%)  [assesses all three Learning Outcomes]

20 hours of lectures and 12 hours of tutorials. Students should also expect to undertake approximately 7 hours of private study per week.

One philosophy course or permission of the co-ordinator.  No incompatibility.

Capability to use basic research techniques in the humanities and social sciences; capability to write academic essays for the humanities and social sciences.

S. Darwall, A. Gibbard, and P. Railton (eds). Moral Discourse and Practice: Some Philosophical Approaches (Oxford 1997)

No special technology is required.