Module Specifications..
Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024
Please note that this information is subject to change.
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Description This module will introduce students to environmental philosophy, providing them with a critical understanding of the ontological, political and ethical issues surrounding the environment. The topics to be studied in the module cover the major issues of environmental philosophy: theories of nature; the ‘anthropocene’; intrinsic value and inherent value in nature; animal consciousness and rights; human rights and the environment; the ethics of over-population; consumerism and mass-extinction; holism and atomism; future generations; distribution of harms and benefits; geoengineering; food systems. These issues are amongst the most pressing issues confronting humanity in the 21st century. Students taking the module will gain an understanding of the philosophical concepts framing our relationship with the environment. Students will gain an understanding of cutting-edge ontological and ethical issues raised by climate change, extinction risks, and over-population. Students are expected to attend and contribute to lectures, and to engage with the recommended texts and readings as they progress through the module. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. comprehend central issues and themes in the history of environmental philosophy 2. construct arguments using the conceptual tools of environmental philosophy and apply these arguments to contemporary issues; 3. understand the wider natural, generational, social, political and cultural significance of these issues and themes; 4. engage in critical analysis and interpretation of important philosophical texts; 5. Evaluate and independently assess key conceptual ideas and movements in environmental philosophy; 6. communicate the meaning and evolution of environmental philosophical issues and present their own arguments and ideas clearly in written form. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
On Natureunderstanding nature and its valueOther Animalsnon-anthropocentric ethicsClimate Changeresponsibility, costs, and mitigationDuties & Obligationsduties towards non-human animals, ecosystems, those at risk from climateStates of Affairsconsequentialism and environmental thoughtConsumptionglobal food systems, and consumption patternsThe Anthropocenehumans' impact on the world | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes
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