ISL550 Islam and Science: Contemporary Ethical Issues (16)

This subject explores the relationship between Islam and science from both historical and contemporary perspectives.  It discusses Islams epistemological consideration of science, and the Muslim contribution to scientific development through the medieval era, together with its influence on the Western scientific renaissance. It also addresses key aspects of Islams perspectives and approaches to contemporary ethical issues arising from new developments in the fields of science and technology, including bioethics, family and sexuality, and the environment.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2019.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of Muslim scholars' contributions to science from both historical and contemporary perspectives
  • be able to analyse critically the contemporary challenges facing the Muslim world in the areas of scientific research
  • be able to articulate and discuss the relationship between ethics and Islam
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the different Islamic legal views related to bioethical topics
  • be able to analyse critically the underlying legal principles that are used to provide legal opinions on matters related to bioethics, family and sexuality
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of Islam's perspective on the environment and the rights of creation
  • be able to analyse and evaluate Muslims' views and initiatives related to environmental ethics
  • be able to demonstrate independent research, organisation, written and oral communication skills through the presentation of a substantial work

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Islamic scholars' contribution to science
  • How Muslim science contributed to European scientific revolution
  • Abortion and Euthanasia
  • Bioethics - Cloning
  • Organ donation
  • Artificial insemination, sperm banks and surrogacy
  • Marriage, de facto relationships and gay marriage
  • Adoption of children
  • Preservation of the ecological balance
  • Protection of animal rights
  • Genetically modified food, healthy eating and concept of halal food

Residential School

This subject contains a 2 day Optional Residential School.

The purpose of the residential school is to provide an opportunity for exploration of the coursework covered and assessment of student learning. In addition to content review, this part of the course aims to facilitate an interactive session between the teaching academics, students and sections of the Islamic community.

Contact

For further information about courses and subjects outlined in the CSU handbook please contact:

Current students

Future students

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2019. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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