PHI359 - Killing and Letting Die

Outline:

This module discusses the moral permissibility of killing and letting die. What factors govern the permissibility of behaviour resulting in another's death? We will begin by discussing whether there is a morally significant difference between killing and merely letting die. We then consider other factors that may make a difference to the moral permissibility of killing/letting die; is it particularly bad to aim at death rather than merely foresee that death will occur? Does it matter if death is a means to a greater good, rather than a side effect? We end by considering the morality of self-defence.

Preparatory Reading

Bonnie Steinbrook and Alastair Norcross (eds). Killing and Letting Die (2nd edition, Fordham University Press, 1994)
Jonathan Glover, Causing Death and Saving Lives [Penguin 1990]
Jonathan Bennett, The Act Itself (Oxford University Press, 1995)

Advised Previous Modules:

Ethics: Theoretical and Pracatical, Matters of Life and Death

Assessment:

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

Lecturer:

Sean Cordell

Lectures: Spring Semester

Thu 2-3 (HI LTA), 4-5 (HI-LT5)

Seminars:
Fri 10-11 (HI-LT11), 12-1 (JB SR 215)