Philosophy

"Bioethics as public philosophy" Since its beginnings, bioethics has not been merely a topic of philosophical research confined to academia and debates among specialists. On the contrary, bioethics is a field of public discussion to which philosophy contributes through conceptual clarification and normative argumentation. Bioethics, therefore, can be understood as a good example of “public philosophy.” By this term, one can mean a specific articulation of philosophical work, namely reflection and research carried out primarily by professional philosophers (that is, those bound to some extent by methods and rules recognized by the scientific and academic community) on matters of general interest to democratic society, with the aim of contributing to the advancement of public debate on these issues and to the development of political decisions concerning them. In retracing the evolution and challenges of bioethics, attention will be given to the history, nature, and method of public philosophy. Special focus will be placed on the Enlightenment roots of philosophy’s public role and on its relevance to contemporary issues.

A knowledge corresponding to the level of the bachelor’s degree in philosophy is required. General knowledge of moral philosophy and applied ethics with special focus on normative ethics and bioethics.

1. E. Lecaldano, Bioetica. Le scelte morali, Laterza, Roma-Bari, 2a ed., 2005 2. Collection of essays and papers provided during classes and uploaded to the course Classroom page.

Attending the course is highly recommended

The evaluation consists of an oral examination. The following will be assessed (also during the course) 1. Knowledge and understanding of the text covered by the course, from its most general aspects to its details; in particular, the students' ability to confront a philosophical text and to critically and personally analyse specific aspects of it will be assessed (evaluation points 1-12). 2. The students' ability to express themselves and to master, even in detail, the vocabulary (evaluation points 1-8). 3. Knowledge of the historical context (in relation to the thought of the authors covered by the course and in relation to the history of philosophy in general) (evaluation points 1-5). 4. The capability of original elaboration and personal exploration of the issues addressed (evaluation points 1-5)

Lectures. Seminar discussion of the articles and essays presented by the students.