Ethics in Society

Join us for this thought-provoking course where you will examine some of the biggest moral topics facing people and society.

Together, we'll explore and discuss the broad concept of ethics by considering questions such as: Is an equal society a just society? Should we take action to correct biases against certain groups? What are the moral and ethical dilemmas of abortion? Is it ever morally acceptable to help someone die? What responsibility do we have to the planet as it relates to climate change?

We will look at the background to these topics and the legal rules surrounding them and consider how they affect everyday people and what governments and institutions do to tackle these issues.

Please note that this course includes material and / or discussion of sensitive topics that some learners may find upsetting.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:  

• Read and critically evaluate a philosopher’s argument
• Explain the central elements in a range of philosophical and ethical challenges
• Identify the wider philosophical and socio-political significance of these topics

No previous experience is required.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support.

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course is due to start, unless the course is full or cancelled.