TRS4102 - Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
demonstrate knowledge of the specific ways in which philosophical positions have had an impact on issues in theology and religion
demonstrate an understanding of the historical context in which contemporary philosophical discussion about religious matters has arisen
demonstrate that they can engage with and enter into intellectual dialogue with the work of specified philosophers and philosophers of religion
demonstrate critical and analytical skills through the analysis of philosophical texts and arguments about religion

Content:

The first part of the module will provide an overview of the nature of philosophy of religion and philosophical enquiry and an introduction to key questions in the philosophy of religion such as faith and reason, fideism and evidentialism, knowledge and God.
This will lead on to consideration of how philosophical ideas have been employed in relation to theology and theological problems. Topics and authors to be explored may include (for example):
– arguments for the existence of God (Aquinas, Paley, Descartes, Kant)
– the soul, life after death, and the mind-body problem
– religious language – talking about God (Ayer, Wittgenstein, postmodernity)
epistemology and the status of religious truth claims (Kierkegaard, Plantinga)

Learning and Teaching Information:

The course 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; seminar-style discussion of a particular topic; informal 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 drafts if required.

Lecture
Hours: 20
Intended Group size: Cohort

Seminar, group work, tutorial, etc
Hours: 20
Intended Group size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 160

Further details relating to assessment
The portfolio will consist of 6 portfolio entries, each of 300-400 words in length (not to exceed the maximum allowed in the final submission). These will be assessed throughout the module, with a submission due approximately every two weeks, and submitted together as a pack at the end of the module.

Assessment:

001 Portfolio 1 x 2000 words equiv end of semester 1 50%
002 Essay 1 x 2000 words end of semester 1 50%


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