Module PHIL2141: METAPHYSICS

Department: PHILOSOPHY

PHIL2141: METAPHYSICS

Prerequisites

• Knowledge and Reality (PHIL1021)

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To provide a grounding in modern metaphysics, conceived as a study of the most fundamental structure of reality, and a grasp of those key concepts required for a representation of the world not only as it is but as it must be.

Content

• Topics to be covered during the module will include: problems of identity and individuation, the nature of necessity and the notion of "possible worlds", the distinction between essential and accidental properties, the interpretation of counterfactual conditionals, the nature of causation, actions and events, problems of space and time, and questions concerning the existence of universals and abstract entities.

Learning Outcomes

• Have knowledge and understanding of key metaphysical theories.

• Be able to identify, explain and address philosophical questions arising in metaphysics.

• Be able to use relevant literature to examine and assess arguments for and against such theories.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Structured teaching within seminars delivers basic module-specific information and provides a framework for further study. Seminars provide the opportunity for students to debate different opinions about theories and questions under investigation.
• Guided reading provides a structure within which students can exercise and extend their abilities to make use of available learning resources.
• The formative essays provide the opportunity for students to test and extend their knowledge and understanding of module content, and to develop their ability to present and defend relevant arguments and theories using available learning resources, uninhibited by the need for summative assessment.
• The unseen 3 hour examination tests knowledge and understanding of the course material, and the ability to identify and explain judgments regarding the merits and weaknesses of metaphysical theories.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Two formative essays (of 2000 words maximum), one due at the end of Michaelmas Term and one due at the end of Epiphany Term.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University