Content

This unit considers ethics in a pluralist society. It offers an introduction to the principal theories of ethics such as utilitarianism, divine command ethics, basic goods theory. It explores the themes of Christian faith and ethics, Christian anthropology, and the sources of moral knowledge. These themes in turn give rise to consideration of the role of human experience, scripture, narrative, emotions, and worship, within contemporary Christian ethics. Further themes include an introduction to moral conscience, virtue, character and discipleship in the context of Christian ethics. The implications of these theoretical issues are considered in relation to their application to specific ethical issues.

Unit code: DT9000P

Unit status: Archived (New unit)

Points: 24.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Elective

Unit discipline: Moral Theology

Delivery Mode: Face to Face

Proposing College: Pilgrim Theological College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Demonstrate a critical understanding of the principal theories of Christian ethics

2.

Apply Christian ethical methods to contemporary case studies

3.

Appraise the strengths and weaknesses of each theory of ethics

4.

Discuss the relationship between Christian faith and contemporary ethics

5.

Integrate theoretical knowledge and research skills in a rigorous and critical study of one major issue in Christian ethics.

Unit sequence

30 points of Foundational Study in Biblical Studies and 30 points of Foundational Study in Systematic Theology

Pedagogy

Lectures and Tutorials

Indicative Bibliography

  • Biggar, N. The Hastening that Waits: Karl Barth's Ethics. Rev. ed. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1995.
  • Black, R. Christian Moral Realism. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2000.
  • Finnis, J. Natural Law and Natural Rights. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1980.
  • Hauerwas, S. The Peaceable Kingdom: A Primer in Christian Ethics. Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press, 1983.
  • Hauerwas, S. A Community of Character: Toward a constructive Christian social ethic. Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press, 1981.
  • Hoose, B., (ed.) Christian Ethics: An Introduction. London: Cassell, 1998.
  • Keenan, James F. Virtues for Ordinary Christians. Kansas: Sheed & Ward, 1996.
  • Porter, Jean. The Recovery of Virtue. London: SPCK, 1994.
  • Singer, P. (ed.) Ethics. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1994.
  • Spohn, W. What are they Saying about Scripture and Ethics. New York: Paulist Press 1995.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Essay

6000 word essay

6000 100.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by John Capper on 31 Dec, 2014

Unit record last updated: 2020-10-28 14:50:33 +1100