PHI358 - Philosophy of Sex

Outline:

This module examines philosophical questions related to sex. We begin by considering the nature of sex, discussing a range of theories of sex including the traditional view of sex as essentially connected to reproduction, views of sex as a language or expression of love and "plain sex" theories that emphasise sexual pleasure. In the second half of the module, we will consider the ethics of sexual behaviour, discussing issues such as monogamy, prostitution and paedophilia.

Preparatory Reading

Igor Primoratz, Ethics and Sex (London and New York: Routledge, 1999)
Alan Soble, The Philosophy of Sex: Contemporary Readings (Oxford: Rowman & Littlefield, 2002)
Robert B. Baker, Kathleen J. Wininger, and Frederick A. Elliston, Philosophy of Sex (Amherst, Y.Y.: Prometheus Books, 1998)

Assessment:

One coursework essay (50%) and one two-hour examination (50%).

Lecturer:

Sean Cordell

Lectures: Spring Semester

Thu 2-3 Room: HI-LT10
Thu 4-5 Room: HI-LTD

Seminars:

Fri 10-11 Room: JB-SR 117
Fri 12-1 Room: JB-SR 116