Environmental and Animal Ethics, basic course, 7.5 credits

Main field of study

Course level

Advancement level

Entry requirements

• 60 ECTS credits passed
• English corresponding to the level of English in Swedish upper secondary education (Engelska 6)
  Exemption from Swedish

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of the course, students should be able to
– demonstrate basic knowledge of ethics by studying issues in environmental and animal ethics,
− demonstrate basic knowledge of concepts, theories, and problems within the field of environmental and animal ethics,
− analyse problems in environmental and animal ethics,
− argue for a standpoint of their own regarding a few issues in environmental and animal ethics,
− demonstrate an open and critical attitude to positions and arguments in environmental and animal ethics.

Course content

This course covers the whole range of theories in environmental ethics from various forms of anthropocentrism to sentientism, biocentrism and ecocentrism. The key notion of sustainability is analysed. Moreover, the course covers the whole range of theories in animal ethics from those stressing human interests to those defending animal rights. Various kinds of uses of animals in society are discussed, including animal experimentation. Special attention is given to ethical issues raised by global warming and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Case studies play a central role.

Teaching and working methods

In the course students read and analyse texts, participate in group work, write papers and are actively involved in seminar discussions. In addition, lectures and guest lectures are offered. Work with web resources and visits at workplaces outside the university may also be provided. Homework and independent study are a necessary complement to the course. Language of instructions: English.

Examination

The course is examined by oral presentations and writing a paper. Detailed information about the examination can be found in the course’s study guide.

If special circumstances prevail, and if it is possible with consideration of the nature of the compulsory component, the examiner may decide to replace the compulsory component with another equivalent component.

If the LiU coordinator for students with disabilities has granted a student the right to an adapted examination for a written examination in an examination hall, the student has the right to it.

If the coordinator has recommended for the student an adapted examination or alternative form of examination, the examiner may grant this if the examiner assesses that it is possible, based on consideration of the course objectives.

An examiner may also decide that an adapted examination or alternative form of examination if the examiner assessed that special circumstances prevail, and the examiner assesses that it is possible while maintaining the objectives of the course.

Students failing an exam covering either the entire course or part of the course twice are entitled to have a new examiner appointed for the reexamination.

Students who have passed an examination may not retake it in order to improve their grades.

Grades

Other information

Planning and implementation of a course must take its starting point in the wording of the syllabus. The course evaluation included in each course must therefore take up the question how well the course agrees with the syllabus. 

The course is conducted in such a way that there are equal opportunities with regard to sex, transgender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, sexual orientation and age.

If special circumstances prevail, the vice-chancellor may in a special decision specify the preconditions for temporary deviations from this course syllabus, and delegate the right to take such decisions.

Department