COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Ethics, Value and Philosophy at the University of Reading is a specialised degree focused on moral philosophy, value theory, and real-world ethical and political issues. It is designed to develop strong critical thinking skills, enabling students to evaluate arguments logically and challenge assumptions while engaging with central philosophical questions about meaning, justice, and society. The course is taught by expert academics in the Department of Philosophy, with research strengths in moral philosophy, philosophy of mind, and language, and also includes opportunities to study non-Western traditions such as Indian philosophy. Learning takes place in small, interactive seminar groups that encourage discussion and debate. In the first year, students study core modules including Reason and Argument, Great Works in Philosophy, and The Meaning of Life, which build foundational skills in analysing philosophical texts and constructing arguments. In later years, students progress to more advanced topics such as Ethical Argument and Oppression, Inequality, and the Enemies of Democracy, which connect philosophical theory to contemporary social and political issues. The degree concludes with an independent dissertation or research project, allowing students to explore a topic of personal interest in depth and develop advanced research and writing skills for further study or employment.