Theories of Ethics

By the end of the course students should be able to 1.      Explain the various theories of ethics, like the consequentialist’s theories, the duty based theories, and rule based theories.2.      Define the consequentialist and non-consequentialist views on ethics3.      Describe and critically analyze the two main consequentialist theories i.e., ethical egoism and utilitarianism4.      Describe and critically evaluate virtue ethics or duty based theories of ethics expounded by  Kant’s Duty Ethics and Ross’s Prima Facie Duties(a)    Know the anthropological ‘facts’ about universalism and relativism and understand the criticism of these ‘facts’(b)   Understand how basic principles are important in making moral decisions5.      Describe and critically examine the rule based ethical theory and they impact on ethical decision making.