TRS4512 - Introduction to Philosophy: Questions and Concepts

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge of the methodologies, concepts and questions engaged with in the discipline of philosophy;
Demonstrate an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which contemporary philosophical discussion takes place;
Demonstrate ability to enter into critical and exegetical dialogue with philosophical texts;
Demonstrate critical and analytical skills through the analysis of philosophical arguments;
Demonstrate ability to construct and defend philosophical arguments and positions.

Content:

The module provides an introduction to the history, questions and concepts of philosophy. It includes:
• The history of western philosophy, from presocratic to modern philosophy, looking at how this history has been formative in shaping philosophical thought and method through the texts and debates of key philosophers and movements.
• Key questions and problems in contemporary philosophy, combining recent scholarship with the historical material, in order to provide an introduction to such areas as epistemology, logic, philosophy of mind and aesthetics
• Examination of selected non-western philosophical methods and questions.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The module will be taught in plenary sessions which will make use of a blend of teaching and learning methods. These will normally include: lecture-style presentations by the tutor or visiting lecturers; seminar-style discussion of a particular topic; prepared presentations by students, followed by discussion; other exercises as appropriate to material and group. Guidance on reading in preparation for each session and activity will be given; and learning will be supported where appropriate by VLE and other electronic resources. Guidance on research and essay-writing will be embedded in the learning and teaching process throughout the module; and may also be supported by tutorial guidance on essay plans and feedback on sumitted work.

Lectures
Contact hours: 20
Intended Group size: Whole cohort

Seminars, group work, tutorials, etc
Contact hours: 20
Intended Group size: Whole cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 160

Assessment:

001 Unseen exam 2 hours Semester 1 30%
002 Portfolio 1,500 words Continuous in Semesters 1 & 2 30%
003 Essay 2,000 words Semester 2 40%


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