phi1ppr philosophical problems

PHILOSOPHICAL PROBLEMS

PHI1PPR

2014

Credit points: 15

Subject outline

In this subject we examine some of the central problems that have captivated philosophers throughout millennia, as well as those that scientific advances and cultural changes have only recently brought to our attention. These might include: here did the universe come from? Might a machine think? Is time travel possible? Is it morally acceptable to eat meat, or to design children genetically? Does the world suggest the existence of a designer, a God? Students will focus on examining the merits of the various arguments on these issues, dealing with each philosophical problem for a week. Students will be introduced to most of the major philosophical areas, including epistemology (what can we know?), metaphysics (what is the nature of reality?), ethics, personal identity, and philosophy of mind.

FacultyFaculty of Humanities & Social Sciences

Credit points15

Subject Co-ordinatorPeter Evans

Available to Study Abroad StudentsYes

Subject year levelYear Level 1 - UG

Exchange StudentsYes

Subject particulars

Subject rules

PrerequisitesN/A

Co-requisitesN/A

Incompatible subjectsN/A

Equivalent subjectsN/A

Special conditionsN/A

Learning resources

Readings

Resource TypeTitleResource RequirementAuthor and YearPublisher
ReadingsThe philosophy gym,PrescribedLaw, S. 2006HEADWAY

Subject options

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Start date between: and    Key dates

Melbourne, 2014, Semester 1, Day

Overview

Online enrolmentYes

Maximum enrolment sizeN/A

Enrolment information

Subject Instance Co-ordinator

Class requirements

LectureWeek: 10 - 22
Two 1.0 hours lecture per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via blended.

TutorialWeek: 10 - 22
One 1.0 hours tutorial per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via blended.

Assessments

Assessment elementComments%
Essay 1000 words25
Essay 1000 words25
Essay Exam 1 hour and 30 minutes (equivalent to 1500 words)35
Essay Plan (equivalent to 200 words)5
Tutorial Participation (oral talk - equivalent to 400 words)10