Ethical Traditions in Islam

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

Time commitment totals 170 hours.

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For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject introduces students to the rich heritage of ethical traditions in Islamic thought. Students will study and critically evaluate the key features and contributions of Muslim theologians, philosophers and Sufis, who attempted to deal with revelation and rationalistic discourse in exploring the meaning of ethical life for Muslims and discussing whether philosophy and religious wisdoms were equals and allies in the pursuit of happiness. The origin and development of these traditions will be introduced with an emphasis on the relevance and application of some ethical issues, such as free will, predestination, human responsibility, and bioethics, to contemporary Muslim societies.

Understanding of the ethical traditions in Islamic thought with an emphasis on the ethical doctrines of Muslim theologians, philosophers and Sufis. Discussing the application of some ethical issues, such as free will, predestination, human responsibility, and bioethics, to contemporary Muslim societies.


To be able to understand the doctrines and ethical theories developed by Muslim thinkers on the nature of goodness and badness and the moral compass in historical and cultural contexts.


Develop skills and ability to critically examine and analyse the major themes of Islamic thought. Apply a number of reserach methodologies to produce and formulate independently scholarly arguments in oral and written communication skills.

• A 500-word take home 20% (due week 6)
• A 1,500-word journal excercise 30% (due week 8)
• A 2,000-word major essay 50% (due during the examination period)

Hurdle requirement: Class attendance is required for this subject; if you do not attend a minimum of 75% of classes without an approved exemption you will not be eligible for a pass in this subject.

Note: Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookroom.

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This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.