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Food Ethics

We are what we eat--morally as well as molecularly. So how should concerns about animals, workers, the environment, and community inform our food choices? Can we develop viable foodways for growing populations while respecting race, ethnic, and religious differences? What does food justice look like in a global industrial food system where there are massive differences in resources, education, and food security?

The main goal of this course is not to prescribe answers to these questions but to give students the tools required to reflect on them effectively. These tools include a knowledge of four leading ethical theories and a grasp of key empirical issues regarding food production, distribution, and consumption.

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Syllabus

First Dish: Utilitarianism and Animal Agriculture (and a Side of Beef!)

Welcome to Food Ethics! In this first week’s module, we’re including two Starters and the First Dish. In Starters, we will introduce ourselves, explain our plans for the course, and ask you to share some information about your eating practices. In the First Dish, we examine some of the key empirical data regarding the treatment of animals in the Industrial Food System (IFS). We then introduce our first ethical framework, Utilitarianism, and consider whether and why someone might adopt it. We conclude with an optional Side Dish called "The Beef about Beef," – which takes a closer look at how cows are born, weaned, finished, killed, and finally processed into beef. We also consider a “least harm” argument according to which, if you’re going to eat meat, you should only eat beef.

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Explores different ethical perspectives on food choices, giving learners tools to critically evaluate arguments on food ethics and justice

Covers a range of ethical theories, such as utilitarianism, Kantianism, virtue ethics, and divine command theory

Examines empirical issues related to food production, distribution, and consumption, helping learners understand the real-world implications of their food choices

Provides insights into the ethical considerations of food justice, race, and diet-related diseases, raising awareness about the social and economic disparities in food systems

Compares alternative food systems, such as the Ithaca-Hopewell Model, and encourages learners to critically evaluate different approaches to sustainable and equitable food practices

Taught by Andrew Chignell, who brings expertise in food ethics and justice

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Reviews summary

Food ethics: a comprehensive moral exploration

According to learners, this course offers a thought-provoking exploration of food ethics, providing a deep dive into diverse ethical frameworks like Utilitarianism, Kantianism, and Virtue Ethics. Students particularly commend its ability to connect these complex theories to real-world applications, addressing critical issues such as animal welfare, food justice, and sustainable food systems. The excellent instructors and high-quality content are frequently highlighted as strengths, fostering critical thinking without prescribing answers. While the course is highly rewarding, some note its intellectual rigor and extensive readings, indicating a significant commitment is required.

Some found the pacing just right, others desired more or less depth at times.

"I felt some sections moved a bit quickly through very complex theories, making it hard to fully absorb everything."

"The weekly modules provided a good rhythm, allowing ample time to digest the challenging material and reflect."

"I sometimes wished for more depth in specific areas, but I understand the need to cover a broad scope in one course."

Requires significant engagement with philosophical concepts and extensive readings.

"Be prepared for a deep dive into philosophical ethics; it's not a light course, but it's incredibly rewarding."

"Some of the readings were quite dense, requiring careful attention and re-reading to fully grasp the concepts."

"While challenging, the intellectual payoff for understanding these ethical concepts was immense for my personal growth."

Focuses on providing tools for reflection rather than definitive solutions.

"I appreciated that the course didn't tell me what to think, but rather how to think critically about food ethics."

"It equipped me with a robust framework to analyze ethical dilemmas, which is exactly what I needed for my work."

"Don't expect easy answers; the course excels at developing your own ethical reasoning and inquiry skills."

Features engaging lectures and insightful interviews from leading experts.

"The professors were articulate and passionate, making even complex philosophical topics accessible and engaging."

"The interviews with various professionals, from farmers to ethicists, added immense real-world value to the modules."

"Content was incredibly well-researched and presented clearly, even the optional 'Side Dishes' were very informative."

Explores a wide range of ethical theories and their practical application.

"The course masterfully introduced me to utilitarianism, Kantianism, and virtue ethics, which I found incredibly valuable."

"I appreciated how the course integrated non-Western approaches, broadening my perspective on global food issues."

"It gave me the necessary tools to reflect effectively on complex food ethics questions, which was my main goal."

Connects complex theories to pressing issues like food justice and animal welfare.

"I found the discussions on food justice and farmworkers incredibly relevant and eye-opening; it changed my perspective."

"It made me critically reconsider my everyday food choices, effectively connecting abstract theory to practical actions."

"The segments on the industrial food system and local alternatives were particularly insightful and thought-provoking."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Food Ethics with these activities:

Review Food Terminology

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Refresh your familiarity with food science and technical terms used in food ethics

Browse courses on Food Science

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Gather and organize your resources
Read articles and paper from food science databases
Create flashcards or summaries
Attend a food science seminar or workshop

Explore the Global Food System

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Explore key aspects of food production and distribution on a global scale

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Identify credible video resources in the Coursera course library or on YouTube
Create an outline to organize your knowledge
Summarize your understanding of key concepts and relationships

Discuss Animal Welfare Issues

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Engage with peers to analyze and debate ethical concerns related to animal agriculture

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Form a study group with fellow learners
Prepare for discussions by researching and considering different perspectives
Participate actively in group discussions

Five other activities

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Read Animal Liberation by Peter Singer

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Examine a seminal work in animal ethics to gain insights into the treatment of animals in food production

View Consider the Turkey on Amazon

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Acquire the book or find it in the library
Create an outline or summary of key arguments
Reflect on the implications for your own food choices

Support a Local Food Bank or Soup Kitchen

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Gain practical experience in addressing food insecurity and food justice issues in your community

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Identify local organizations that provide food assistance
Reach out and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Participate in food distribution, meal preparation, or other related activities

Write an Ethical Food Manifesto

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Develop a personal statement outlining the ethical values and principles that guide your food choices

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Reflect on your current food habits and beliefs
Research different ethical frameworks and perspectives
Write a draft of your manifesto
Solicit feedback and revise your manifesto

Create a Food Ethics Action Plan

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Develop a practical plan to implement your ethical values in your food choices and actions

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Identify areas where your current food practices can be improved
Research alternative food products or sources
Set realistic and achievable goals
Create a timeline and milestones for implementation

Design a Food-Based Social Media Campaign

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Develop and execute a social media campaign to raise awareness and promote ethical food choices

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Identify a specific ethical issue or topic to focus on
Develop a compelling message and target audience
Create engaging content, such as infographics, videos, or blog posts
Launch the campaign on relevant social media platforms
Monitor and evaluate the campaign's reach and impact

Career center

Learners who complete Food Ethics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Food Policy Advocate

A Food Policy Advocate works to promote policies that ensure everyone has access to safe, affordable, and nutritious food. They work with government agencies, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to develop and implement food policies that address issues such as hunger, food insecurity, and sustainable agriculture. Food Ethics can provide Food Policy Advocates with a strong foundation in the ethical principles that guide food policy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Food Policy Advocate

Public Health Nutritionist

A Public Health Nutritionist works to improve the health of communities by promoting healthy eating habits. They work with individuals, families, and communities to develop and implement nutrition programs, and they advocate for policies that promote healthy food choices. Food Ethics can provide Public Health Nutritionists with a strong foundation in the ethical principles that guide public health nutrition practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Nutritionist

Food Systems Analyst

A Food Systems Analyst studies the food system, including food production, distribution, consumption, and waste. They work with governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to identify and address challenges in the food system, such as food insecurity, sustainability, and equity. Food Ethics can help Food Systems Analysts understand the ethical dimensions of the food system and develop solutions that promote social justice and environmental sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Food Systems Analyst

Registered Dietitian

A Registered Dietitian provides nutrition counseling and education to individuals and groups. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Food Ethics can be useful for Registered Dietitians who want to understand the ethical implications of their work, such as the importance of promoting healthy eating habits and respecting cultural food practices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Dietitian

Agricultural Economist

An Agricultural Economist researches the economics of food production and distribution. Their responsibilities include analyzing agricultural policies, evaluating the impact of government programs on the agricultural sector, and developing economic models to improve the efficiency and sustainability of food systems. Having a background in Food Ethics would aid in understanding the ethical implications of agricultural practices and policies that impact food production and distribution.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Economist

Conservationist

A Conservationist develops and implements plans to protect and restore natural resources, including forests, water, and wildlife. They work with landowners, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure the sustainable use of these resources. Food Ethics can help Conservationists consider the ethical implications of conservation practices, such as those that affect the use of land for agriculture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservationist

Food Safety Inspector

A Food Safety Inspector ensures that food is safe and meets regulatory standards. They inspect food production facilities, restaurants, and other food establishments to ensure compliance with food safety laws and regulations. Food Ethics can help Food Safety Inspectors understand the ethical implications of their work, such as the importance of protecting public health and ensuring food safety.

See salaries and explore the career path for Food Safety Inspector

Environmental Policy Analyst

An Environmental Policy Analyst researches, develops, and evaluates environmental policies. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to design policies that protect the environment and promote sustainable practices. Food Ethics can help Environmental Policy Analysts understand the ethical dimensions of environmental policy, such as the impacts of food production and consumption on the environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Food Scientist

A Food Scientist develops new food products and processes, and improves the quality and safety of food. They work in research and development, quality control, and product development. Food Ethics may help Food Scientists understand the ethical implications of their work, such as the impact of food production and consumption on the environment and human health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Food Scientist

Ethnographer

An Ethnographer studies human cultures and societies through fieldwork and observation. They immerse themselves in a community to learn about its values, beliefs, and practices. Food Ethics can provide Ethnographers with a framework for understanding the cultural and ethical significance of food in different societies.

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Lawyer

A Lawyer advises clients on legal matters and represents them in court. They work in a variety of practice areas, including environmental law, food law, and public interest law. Food Ethics can be useful for Lawyers who work on cases related to food safety, food labeling, and other food-related issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Medical Anthropologist

A Medical Anthropologist studies the relationship between culture and health. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. Food Ethics may be useful for Medical Anthropologists who work on issues related to food insecurity, nutrition, and the social determinants of health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Anthropologist

Grant Writer

A Grant Writer writes proposals to secure funding for nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other organizations. They work with program staff to develop project proposals and budgets, and they manage the grant writing process. Food Ethics may be useful for Grant Writers who work with organizations that focus on food-related issues, such as hunger, food insecurity, and sustainable agriculture.

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Market Researcher

A Market Researcher conducts research to understand consumer behavior, market trends, and product preferences. They work with businesses to develop маркетинговый strategies and improve product offerings. Food Ethics may be useful for Market Researchers who work in the food industry, helping them to understand the ethical implications of different food products and marketing campaigns.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Historic Preservationist

A Historic Preservationist works to preserve and protect historic buildings, sites, and artifacts. They work with architects, engineers, and other professionals to develop and implement preservation plans, and they advocate for the protection of historic resources. Food Ethics may be useful for Historic Preservationists who work on projects related to food history and culture, such as the preservation of historic foodways or agricultural landscapes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Historic Preservationist

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Food Ethics.

The Ethics of What We Eat

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Comprehensive examination of the ethical implications of our food choices. Singer argues that we have a moral responsibility to eat in a way that minimizes harm to animals and the environment.

Food Ethics

Two deals to help you save

What's inside

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Food ethics: a comprehensive moral exploration

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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