Unit name | Introduction to Bioethics |
---|---|
Unit code | SSCM30001 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Ives |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None, other than those pre-requisites for undertaking study on the programme. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | Bristol Medical School |
Faculty | Faculty of Health Sciences |
This unit will provide an introduction to the field of bioethics. The unit will introduce students to the main ethical theories in bioethics, linked to some contemporary debates in moral philosophy. Theoretical bioethical analysis will be illustrated by reference to selected ethical issues in medicine and science. Aims: By the end of the unit students will have a basic understanding of key themes in bioethics theory, and have developed skills in philosophical analysis, construction of arguments and debating. The course will serve to integrate the students’ studies in moral philosophy, law and bioethics and will help them to prepare a topic for the dissertation unit.
On successful completion of this unit a student should:
Students receive 12 x 2-hour seminars led by staff members.
Summative assessment comprises an essay of 4000 words. Formative assessment comprises: preparation of seminar exercises; participation in seminar activities, including group-work and oral presentations; a written assignment of 2000 words.