Course content

The course deals with basic issues in moral philosophy, social philosophy, and philosophy of law, and the relationship between moral, social, and legal norms.

Key questions in the course are: What is the basis for moral judgments? What makes a rule of law valid? What is the relationship between law and morality?

In the course, we review different perspectives within social philosophy and philosophy of law, and look at connections and differences between philosophical, legal and social science approaches to normative issues. In connection with this, the course provides insight into legal argumentation.

Learning outcome

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge:

• knowledge of key issues and perspectives in metaethics, social philosophy, and philosophy of law
• knowledge of the relationship between philosophical, legal, and social science approaches to normative issues
• knowledge of key theories about the legal system and the power of the courts, as well as basic insight into how legal practitioners proceed to decide legal issues

Skills:

• see connections and differences between moral, legal, social, and political issues
• use insights from metaethics, social philosophophy, and philosophy of law to recognize and problematize assumptions and perspectives in arguments and discourses
• apply metaethical, social philosophical, and legal philosophical perspectives on specific issues

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, self-study.

In order to sit the exam, 80 % attendance and an approved presentation is required. The obligatory activity can only be approved the semester the course is taught, but is valid for this and the subsequent semester.

Compulsory assignments

• 80 % attendance
• Approved presentation

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

The required reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.