The Ethics of Embodiment

Module Description:

The module will examine the central importance of embodiment in Catholic Christian thought: almost all forms of Christianity have a belief in the resurrection of the body.   The module will examine some of the historical instances when this strong assertion of the moral significance has been challenged internally, as in some forms of neo-Platonist thought, and externally as in the conflict with the Cathars in the thirteenth century.  Contemporary post-modern debates about the significance of the body will be introduced. 

In this context the module will examine Christian thought on sexuality, particularly as it has developed in the Catholic tradition.  Particular attention will be given to debates about contested issues including marriage and divorce, reproduction, same-sex relationships, bi and trans-sexualism, as they have developed in different cultural contexts.  This module will also examine a number of the major global issues in which debates about the ethical significance of the body have a bearing, including the HIV/AIDS pandemic and trafficking for sexual exploitation.

Indicate bibliography

Brague, R, The Wisdom of the World, Chicago University Press, 2003.
Eagleton, T., The Illusions of Postmodernism, Oxform: Blackwells, 1996
Farley M. A., Just Love: A Framework for Christian Sexual Ethics, New York: Continuum, 2006.
Jordan, M., The Silence of Sodom, Homosexuality in Modern Catholicism, University of Chicago Press, 2000
Keenan, J., Catholic Ethicists on  HIV/AIDS Prevention New York: Continuum, 2000 May,
Lawler, R. & Boyle, J., Catholic Sexual Ethics, A Summary, An Explanation and A Defense, Huntington IN: Our Sunday’s Visitor, 1998
Salzman, T. & Lawler, M. The Sexual Person: Toward a Renewed Catholic Anthropology, Washington: Georgetown University Press, 2008.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Explain the importance of embodiment and the moral significance of the body in Catholic Christianity
• Explain and analyse the Christian tradition’s approach to sexuality, particularly as it has developed within the Catholic theological tradition.
• assess the arguments in key contested issues in sexuality, including marriage and divorce, reproduction, same-sex relationships.
• Recognize the global perspective in some issues in sexual ethics including the HIV/AIDS pandemic and trafficking for sexual exploitation.

Methods of Assessment

1,500 word essay (40%) and end of year examination (60%).