Theories of Medical Ethics

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Open to Philosophy, Law, and Medical students, this seminar will involve a close reading and critique of the most prominent theories in contemporary medical ethics, including Principlism (Beauchamp & Childress), Utilitarianism (Singer), Contractualism (Veatch), Foundationalism (Pellegrino & Thomasma), Casuistry (Jonsen & Toulmin), Continental (Habermas), and Covenantal approaches (Ramsey; May). The class will be conducted in classical seminar style, with students assigned to lead the discussions of particular texts. Our interdisciplinary discussion will exemplify and provide a context for the interdisciplinary nature of the field. Limited to 25 students.