Philosophy of Religion and Ethics – (M.A.)

Contents

The Masters in Philosophy of Religion and Ethics is the flagship programme of the school of Philosophy, Theology and Religion. Students who take this programme will explore the key issues in the fields of Philosophy of Religion and Ethics, for example:

* Are there shared human values?


* How do we negotiate different belief systems in pluralistic societies?


* Is there a conflict between science and religion?


* Do people with different religious views have the same morals?


* Is life without God meaningless?


* How should religion and ethics be taught in a multicultural classroom?


* Can we prove (or disprove!) the existence of God?



This programme will particularly appeal to graduates who wish to develop their professional careers (including teachers, social professionals and those whose occupation touches upon these issues); those who wish to advance their academic careers; as well as those who simply have a passion for the topic.

Core Modules

God, Freedom and the Meaning of Life (20 credits)
This module is an introduction to important issues that have a relevance to the philosophy of religion and ethics, such as: Are there sound arguments for/against the existence of God? Is freedom compatible with God's foreknowledge? Why is there something rather than nothing? Is life meaningless without God? Can there be morality without God?

Global Ethics (20 credits)
Global Ethics explores the nature of ethics and provides the theoretical tools necessary for you to analyse the arguments of others and create robust ethical arguments of your own. It raises questions such as: How can actions be judged right or wrong, or better or worse? Can the end justify the means? Are there shared values? What does ethics have to say about the key political and social dilemmas of our time?

Dissertation (60 credits)
The dissertation offers you a chance to explore in depth a topic of your choice in a sustained manner. With advice from a supervisor you will address a topic in the area of philosophy of religion and ethics in a detailed way. This module provides you with an opportunity to pursue your own research interests.

Research Methods/Skills (20 credits)
The module consists of fourteen sessions. Normally ten sessions are taught by the College of Arts and Law as components of its generic research skills module. The other four sessions are taught by the School of Philosophy, Theology and Religion focusing on discipline specific topics.