AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This course introduces students to the foundational ideas of Western moral philosophy and invites them to apply these ideas to one of the most pressing questions of our time: how should we live with intelligent machines? Focusing on ethical issues arising from the use of Artificial Intelligence in education, students will explore three major ethical frameworks—Utilitarianism, Deontology, and Virtue Ethics—and consider how these Western perspectives compare with key concepts from Confucian ethics. The three Western frameworks form the foundation of most ethical thought in Western philosophy, and Confucian ethics provides an alternative non-Western perspective that has been significant throughout the development of Chinese philosophy. Through engagement with real-world cases such as automated grading, AI tutors, and student surveillance software, students will develop the ability to analyse ethical dilemmas, construct reasoned arguments, and reflect critically on their own use of generative AI in academic work. The course aims to equip students not only with philosophical knowledge but also with the practical skill of ethical reasoning that is essential for responsible participation in a digitally mediated world. No prior background in philosophy or computer science is required.

COURSE INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (CILOs)