Programme And Module Handbook
 
Course Details in 2024/25 Session


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Module Title LI Experience and Reason: Early Modern Philosophy
SchoolPhil, Theology and Religion
Department Philosophy
Module Code 08 26781
Module Lead Alastair Wilson
Level Intermediate Level
Credits 20
Semester Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions None
Contact Hours Lecture-20 hours
Seminar-8 hours
Guided independent study-172 hours
Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description This module examines the resurgence of philosophical theorizing and debate which took place in Europe in the 1600s and 1700s, alongside the 'scientific revolution'. It focuses on philosophers from the 'Early Modern' period broadly construed, including Descartes, Berkeley, Leibniz, Locke, Hume and Kant as well as a range of lesser-known figures. We will examine their views on a range of topics in metaphysics and epistemology, introducing the main themes of the era – particularly those that shaped the landscape of contemporary philosophy. These themes will include:
  • Scientific developments and their impact on philosophy.
  • Rationalism and empiricism.
  • Perception and the external world.
  • The nature of substances, essence and modality.
  • Personal identity and the self.
  • Attitudes to God and religion.
Learning Outcomes By the end of the module students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate recognition of and understand key themes from early modern philosophy;
  • Critically discuss the key philosophical themes from the perspective of the early modern philosophers;
  • Demonstrate understanding that the texts of the era are open to multiple reasonable interpretations, and be able to give interpretations of some portions of the texts;
  • Demonstrate improvement in general philosophical skills such as the interpretation of philosophical literature and the analysis and evaluation of philosophical argument.
Assessment 26781-01 : 1750 word Essay 1 : Coursework (50%)
26781-02 : 1750 word Essay 2 : Coursework (50%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions Assessment:
2 x 1750 word essays (50% each)

Reassessment:
2 x 1750 word essays (50% each).
Other
Reading List