RL ST 131
(GH)
(PHIL 132)
Introduction to Bioethics (3) Studies questions of ethics in relation to biotechnology research and implementation, genetic engineering, medicine, animal and human rights.
RL ST 131 (PHIL 132) Introduction to Bioethics (3)
(GH)
(BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements.
The course, as other 100-level Religious Studies Program and Philosophy courses, is intended for Liberal Arts majors and others likely to take Religious Studies and Philosophy courses rather than for Religious Studies majors. This course will provide a critical survey of key concepts, problems, and figures in the short history of bioethics and in contemporary studies and possible future directions. The course will develop the student's analytical and critical skills through study of different views on the nature of life and what experimentation with life-forms morally entails. The course will examine the increasingly techno-scientific definition of the nature of life and the human condition and evaluate such arguments and positions of practice in regard to opposing views of life as inherently sacred. It will investigate the extent and breadth of moral arguments in regard to differing life forms and consider the rights of humans and non-human animals. Students will be graded on participation, case study analyses, a group presentation, and a final paper. PHIL 132/RL ST 131 satisfies the GH requirement and it may be used to fulfill major and/or minor requirements in Philosophy and Religious Studies.
Note : Class size, frequency of offering, and evaluation methods will vary by location and instructor. For these details check the specific course syllabus.