Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LH The Ethics of Character
School	Phil, Theology and Religion
Department	Theology and Religion
Module Code	09 29766
Module Lead	Sophia Vasalou
Level	Honours Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-10 hours Seminar-20 hours Guided independent study-170 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	Ideals of character occupy a central—if sometimes underrated—place in our ethical life. Some of the most important moral judgements we make revolve not simply around the things people do, but around the qualities of character they manifest. This has been reflected in a long history of philosophical and theological engagement with conceptions of character, or the virtues and the vices. This module will investigate the concept of character using a variety of perspectives and approaches, focusing chiefly on philosophical accounts of character while also introducing religious perspectives on the subject. It will explore a number of core questions, such as: What is character, and why does it matter? What constitutes good character? Do ideals of character vary across different cultural, historical and religious contexts? Are we responsible for our character? Can character be changed, and if so, how? The module will familiarise students with contemporary discussions of character while also selectively engaging historical approaches to the topic.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Demonstrate a broad understanding of philosophical (and to some extent theological) perspectives on character Analyse and critically evaluate diverse accounts of character Reason independently about ethical questions regarding character and support their views through clear exposition and critical argument Construct critical arguments that demonstrate transferrable skills of reasoning and analysis
Assessment	29766-01 : 4000 Word Essay : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment(s): One 4,000-word essay Reassessment: as above
Other
Reading List