Global Ethics

About this programme

In recent years, armed conflicts, environmental crises, and increased numbers of refugees have demonstrated the urgent need for guidance about how to address global problems. This course is premised on the idea that philosophy can and should contribute to these debates. Through a study of classic and contemporary texts, along with the opportunity for discussion with peers, it will provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the controversies in global ethics along with the skills to critically assess the existing theories and ideas. Among the questions addressed will be: What are the obligations of affluent states (and individuals) to remedy global poverty? What is the philosophical foundation of human rights? How should emissions rights be distributed? How should a refuge be defined? And when, if ever, is resort to war justified? The questions will be explored, in part, via a study of Torbjörn Tännsjö’s new book From Despotism to Democracy: How a World Government Can Save Humanity. During the course, Professor Tännsjö will give a guest lecture on the book. The course does not presuppose any prior knowledge of ethics or philosophy, and would be ideal for existing philosophy students, students from other disciplines, and those working in globally-focused institutions, among others. Isaac Taylor is a senior lecturer in practical philosophy at Stockholm University. His research is in moral and political philosophy, especially topics within AI ethics and the ethics of war and peace. He previously worked for the UK government in investigating the ethical issues surro