| Unit name | Introduction to Philosophy A |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PHIL10005 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | C/4 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Pyle |
| Open unit status | Open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Philosophy |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
An introductory unit for all taking Philosophy as beginners, this unit leads students into some central problems of epistemology and metaphysics. It consists of two strands, one text-based and one topic-based. The text-based strand consists of six lectures each on Descartes' Meditations and Hume's first Enquiry. The topic-based strand consists of lectures on knowledge, truth, and the distinction between realty and appearance.
On completion of this course, students will:
(1) have a thorough knowledge of the key historical texts covered.
(2) be familiar with some key secondary literature on these texts, and be able to engage critically with it.
(3) be able to engage critically with the authors’ positions and arguments.
(4) have a thorough knowledge of the key issues in metaphysics and epistemology covered.
(5) be familiar with some key contemporary literature on these issues, and be able to engage critically with it.
(6) be in a position to relate the philosophical issues discussed to the texts read.
22 one-hour lectures + 11 one-hour seminars.
Formative: two 1,500-2,000 word essays from a list of questions designed to test intended learning outcomes (1)-(6).
Summative: one 3-hour unseen examination designed to test intended learning outcomes (1)-(6).
