EPHUMA307

Philosophy

20 Units 3000 Level Course

Available in 2014

Callaghan Campus Semester 2

Previously offered in 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

The course will introduce students to philosophy through the study of four central areas of philosophical interest: epistemology, critical reasoning, metaphysics and ethics. A basic level of knowledge of core philosophical concepts and skills is provided along with development of a wider set of necessary skills for university study, including academic reading, writing and research skills. Exploration of individual beliefs and mutual respect for the diversity of viewpoints across individuals and cultures is encouraged through discussion.

Objectives Upon successful completion, students should be able to demonstrate:

1. a basic familiarity with the fundamental issues, concepts and arguments in epistemology, critical reasoning, metaphysics and ethics;

2. an awareness of the difference between mere opinion and reasoned belief and a recognition of, and respect for, competing points of view;

3. a basic capacity to construct and critically evaluate arguments;

4. a basic competence in the reading of academic texts and a capacity to integrate reading of texts with material presented in lectures;

5. a basic competence in critical thinking and essay writing skills, including the use
of argument, organisation of ideas and the use and acknowledgement of primary and secondary literature sources;

6. a basic competence in research skills, including the use of libraries.
Content 1. Epistemology:
1.1 Introduction to theory of knowledge;
1.2 Perceptual belief and knowledge;
1.3 Some problems of knowledge.

2. Critical reasoning:
2.1 The nature and uses of argument;
2.2 Validity and truth;
2.3 Propositional arguments and their validity;
2.4 The traditional syllogism and its validity.

3. Metaphysics:
3.1 The nature and purpose of metaphysics;
3.2 Topics in metaphysics which may include: the mind/body problem; life after death; the existence of God.

4. Ethics:
4.1 Nature and purpose of ethics;
4.2 Introduction to basic ethical theories;
4.3 Arguments concerning relevant ethical theories;
4.3 Case study: Application of ethical theories and arguments.
Replacing Course(s) NA
Transition NA
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge Nil
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Tutorial
Assessment Items
Examination: Class Critical Reasoning and Epistemology, 50 mins; 10%
Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of epistemological issues and critical reasoning skills and basic competence in essay-writing and argument skills. Provides experience in examination technique.
Essays / Written Assignments Tutorial Exercise, 500 words, 5%
Introduces basic essay-writing skills, including organisation of ideas and expression. Demonstrates understanding of relevant epistemological issues concerning human perception.
Essays / Written Assignments Epistemology Essay, 1000 words, 10%
Develops basic essay-writing and research skills, including organisation of ideas, expression, referencing and the use of argument. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of relevant epistemological issues.
Essays / Written Assignments Critical Reasoning Assignment, 1-3 pages, 10%
Demonstrates mastery of relevant critical reasoning skills.
Essays / Written Assignments Ethics Essay, 1500 words, 15%
Develops basic essay-writing and research skills, including organisation of ideas, expression, referencing and the use of argument. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of relevant epistemological issues.
Examination: Formal Final Examination, 2 hours, 45%
Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of relevant metaphysical and ethical issues and basic competence in essay-writing and argument skills.
Quiz - Class Metaphysics Class Quiz, 10 minutes, 5%
Tests knowledge and understanding of relevant concepts and arguments in metaphysics.
Contact Hours Lecture: for 5 hour(s) per Week for 12 weeks
Tutorial: for 1 hour(s) per Week for 11 weeks
Timetables 2014 Course Timetables for EPHUMA307