Overview

This module will examine the philosophical and ethical issues related to sex and sexuality scrutinising assumptions and viewpoints about sexual intercourse, sexual pleasure, and sexual bodies. In particular, we will focus on how sexuality, gender, religion and social class, have impacted sexual practices and norms throughout history. Some of the central questions for this module will include: What is a sexual act? Is cybersex genuine sex? What is perversion? What is the relationship between desire and sexual objectification? Is it morally wrong to pay for sex?

This module will address the following themes and issues:

. Defining Sex - What is a sex act? Is cybersex genuine sex? Does sex have a purpose? How do we distinguish between a “normal” sex act and perversion? Is perversion subjective?

.Sexual Objectification and Autonomy -Is it wrong to sexually objectify someone? Is it wrong to pay for sex? Is pornography morally wrong? What does it mean to have sexual autonomy?

.Sex and Freedom of Expression - Are striptease and burlesque art forms? Why does sex make us laugh?

.Marriage - Should marriage consist of only one man and one women? Should family members have a say on who a person is allowed to marry?

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D- - D +. Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows:Generally accurate but with omissions and errors.Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning.Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions.Draws on a relatively narrow range of material. -good -Very Good B- - B+. Submitted work is competent throughout and distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates:Very good structure and logically developed arguments.Draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style. -excellent -A - - A*. Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways:Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent.Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study.Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions. -another level-Good C- - C +. Submitted work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates:Good structure and logically developed arguments.At least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.Assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning.Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the main issues in contemporary debates concerning sexual morality.

• Have acquired a comprehensive understanding of the philosophical and religious perspectives concerning sex, marriage and gender issues.

• Present coherent arguments, with supporting evidence, in essays, examinations and seminars.