UCC Book of Modules, 2012/2013: Philosophy

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 1, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): Completed Year One of an undergraduate degree programme

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (Meetings with module coordinator - no less than 1 per term; Self Directed Study).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: The module provides an opportunity to round the education of a student. The aim of the module is to encourage extra-curricular activity amongst students during their time of study in UCC and award credit within their programme of study where the student has demonstrated that they have engaged in reflective learning arising from their participation in those activities.

Module Content: Students will meet with lecturing staff at the beginning of the year in order to agree on a personal learning plan to be defined with the student. Students may choose to participate in conference planning, regular work in a philosophical society, research assistance and other activities relevant to academic Philosophy.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Develop transferable skills, such as report writing, presentation and conference organization
· Reflect on learning and self-development
· Communicate effectively in writing or in other means
· Locate, gather, sift and synthesise an adequate body of source material
· Demonstrate the ability to work independently under the constraints imposed by word limits, time limits and deadlines
· Think critically and creatively and to bring the necessary skills to their assessed work in this module.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (Reflective Learning Log/Portfolio 30 marks; Individual Project as agreed in the personal learning plan, e.g., literature review, conference report, regular blog entries, presentation, etc.).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed elements are carried forward; failed elements must be repeated as prescribed by the module coordinator.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 48 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide a general introduction to ethics and political philosophy.

Module Content: An introduction to some central philosophical issues which are relevant to students in Social Science, including Ethics, political philosophy, rights and social inclusion.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline key theoretical questions in political philosophy;
· Describe the positions of central theorists in the history of political thought;
· Contrast alternative accounts of the state, justice, rights and equality;
· Evaluate the importance of political ideas in contemporary life.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 120 marks; Continuous Assessment 80 marks (2 x in class tests 40 marks each).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Students must take a 1 x 1.5 hr written paper in lieu of failed in-class test, set by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 48 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Lilian O'Brien, Department of Philosophy; Dr Jason Dockstader, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide an historical context for discussing some of the perennial problems of philosophy.

Module Content: A review of issues in theory of knowledge and political philosophy that emerged in the 17th century. These may include scepticism, theories of ideas, dualism, the authority of the state, and the theory of natural rights.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise the main ethical, epistemological and metaphysical problems as they appear in European philosophy in the 17th century;
· Evaluate the relationship between philosophy, science and metaphysics in the 17th century;
· Explore the possible linkages between key philosophers in the 17th century;
· Locate the various key philosophical issues in the 17th century;
· Outline the contribution of the 17th century to contemporay philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 120 marks; Continuous Assessment 80 marks (2 x In-class Tests).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Students must re-sit failed in class tests).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To convey an appreciation of the central role of reasoning in philosophy and an understanding of the various styles of reasoning and argument used by philosophers.

Module Content: The module starts with the distinction between deductive and inductive reasoning. The first half of the module will consider inductive arguments, and various kinds of 'informal' reasoning. The second half of the course will teach students how to construct, analyse and evaluate deductive arguments by employing some 'formal' logical techniques. Throughout the course students will be encouraged to consider the benefits and problems associated with different styles of reasoning by examining arguments in both philosophical and non-philosophical contexts.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· identify and distinguish the major components of deductive and inductive arguments;
· apply the concepts of logical validity and soundness;
· analyse and evaluate arguments found in everyday contexts;
· construct proofs to logical validity and logical equivalance;
· explain and reconstruct arguments pertaining to causation and hypothesis confirmation.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (2 x In-class Tests 50 marks each).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): None.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) (in lieu of continuous assessment) to be taken in Autumn.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Alfred Moore, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To familiarise students with philosophical approaches to social and political questions.

Module Content: This module is an introduction to political philosophy with a special focus on modern society. In particular we will look at how various theories of democracy have emerged since the 17th century and how they are now modified and/or challenged by some contemporary Western and/or Asian authors.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify important questions that political philosophy addresses;
· Think critically about theories and arguments regarding democracy;
· Compare different approaches towards and evaluations of democracy in Western and/or Asian contexts;
· Discuss theories, issues and problems regarding democracy in a careful and sophisticated way;
· Describe important theories of and about democracy in an intelligent and sophisticated manner;
· Write an intelligent and careful analysis of one issue in political philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide a review of contemporary accounts of our mental life.

Module Content: This module explores some major philosophical questions that arise from a condiseration of the concept of consciousness. We will study the relation between consciousness and self-consciousness, the problem of other minds, the idea of embodiment, the differences between subjectivity and objectivity, and the age-old "mind-body problem". We will examine how these questions have been addressed by philosophers from both analytic and phenomenological traditions.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise the problem of consciousness as it appears in a number of different philosophical traditions;
· Identify the different viewpoints on consciousness taken by major philosophers;
· Assess the relative merits of the different theories of consciousness;
· Connect the problem of consciousness with other topics in philosophy of mind, such as subjectivity, privacy, embodiment and self-awareness;
· Construct arguments and examples to defend or critique theories of consciousness.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Jason Dockstader, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: Students will be able to discuss influential aesthetic theories and analyses of art with regards to their plausability and appropriateness for particular artworks and styles.

Module Content: We discuss different aesthetic theories and philosophical implications of art. Among the questions to be explored are: What makes artworks different from ordinary objects? What is good and what is bad in art? What is aesthetic experience? How can we argue about taste? What are aesthetic features of non-artistic, everyday objects and events? What can art tell us about life? What difference does all this make to philosophy? And what difference does it make to us?

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise key questions in debates on aesthetics and history of art;
· Identify different positions taken by major philosophers contributing to the debate;
· Apply knowledge of these positions to particular examples and problems;
· Analyse key questions and arguments;
· Formulate arguments for and objections against various positions and approaches;
· Assess and criticise major positions in reference to possible implications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed Attendance and Participation, and additional 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Jason Dockstader, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To familiarise students with different models of democracy, both liberal and non-liberal.

Module Content: The course will involve discussion about the nature and value of democracy, and evaluate models of democracy.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify and describe the main traditions in democracy theory;
· Clarify the presuppositions behind liberal and non-liberal models of democracy;
· Compare and contrast such accounts of democracy as minimalist democracy, social democracy, deliberative democracy, associative democracy;
· Critically appraise the value of particular models of democrary.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 50 marks; in class test 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated. 1 x 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide an understanding of key topics in philosophical theorising about the nature, aims and scope of science.

Module Content: This module will provide an introduction to the most important philosophical concepts and debates in contemporary philosophy of science. Topics to be considered may include the problem of induction, the nature of explanation, the nature of laws, falsificationism, scientific revolutions, the rationality of theory choice and the question of the unity of science. No previous knowledge of any particular science is required or assumed.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· recognise the major philosophical positions concerning the nature of science;
· apply philosophical ideas to the problem of distinguishing science from non-science or pseudoscience;
· assess the relative merits of theories about major scientific concepts, such as explanation, laws, observation, realism and underdetermination;
· integrate considerations about the history of science with methodological issues concerning contemporary scientific practice.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide an understanding of one of the great books in the history of philosophy.

Module Content: This module will consist of a detailed critical analysis of one influential book (or two for the purpose of comparison) in the history of philosophy.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the key ideas discussed in the work;
· Explain the overall approach and principle claims advanced in the work;
· Examine the range of problems or situations to which these ideas are relevant;
· Analyse arguments or evidence given for the claims advanced in the work;
· Recognise and formulate objections against and arguments for these claims;
· Assess the overall relevance and significance of the work.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 40 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To critically assess a number of positions in classical Chinese Philosophy with regard to their relevance for life in the twenty-first century.

Module Content: This course is an introduction to Chinese Philosophy through a reading of classical sources in translation, such as texts from Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism. Our aim will be to try to understand representative texts on their own terms, while at the same time, inquiring into their relevance for our situation now in the twenty-first century.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe major schools in classical Chinese Philosophy;
· Recognise differences between ideas and approaches;
· Apply those classical ideas and approaches to issues of contemporary life;
· Examine the assumptions and fundamental views grounding different schools of thought;
· Recognise and formulate arguments for and objections against major ideas in classical Chinese Philosophy;
· Assess the relative merits and significance of ideas in classical Chinese Philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Graham Parkes, College of ACSSS.

Lecturer(s): Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To critically assess various ideas from the Japanese philosophical tradition with regard to their relevance for life in the twenty-first century.

Module Content: This course is an introduction to Japanese Philosophy through a reading of classical sources in translation, such as texts from Shingon Buddhism, Zen and the twentieth century Kyoto School of Philosophy. Our aim will be to try to understand representative texts on their own terms, while at the same time inquiring into their relevance for our situation now in the twenty-first century.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe major schools in Japanese Philosophy;
· Recognise differences between ideas and approaches;
· Apply those ideas and approaches to issues of contemporary life;
· Examine the assumptions and fundamental views grounding different schools of thought;
· Recognise and formulate arguments for and objections against major ideas in Japanese Philosophy;
· Assess the relative merits and significance of ideas in Japanese Philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,000 word essay 30 marks; attendance and participation including zazen practice 30 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,000 word essay and, in lieu of failed class participation, a second 3,000 word essay to be submitted as prescribed by the department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 8, Max 40.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To acquaint students with major philosophical perspectives on theories of the mass media.

Module Content: This module introduces several theories on the Mass Media. First, major 20th century Mass Media theorists (Walter Benjamin, Marshall McLuhan, Noam Chomsky) will be studied. Then, debates on the socio-political role of the Mass Media between the leftist thinkers (H.-M. Enzensberger) and their "postmodernist" critics (J. Baudrillard, P. Virilio) will be analyzed. Finally, more recent reflections on the challenges posed by a "virtualized" reality to traditional ontologies and epistemologies (N. Luhmann's) will be discussed.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain the central features of philosophical analyses of the mass media;
· Critically assess aspects of mass media communication from a philosophical perspective;
· Critically assess social and psychological effects of mass media communication;
· Construct philosophical arguments that reflect on the "virtualization" of reality through the mass media.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 in class test 40 marks: 1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay. A second 1 x 2,500 word essay in lieu of failed attendance and participation).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To critically assess ethical and political theory applied to real cases.

Module Content: Through case studies from contemporary politics and society, this module addresses questions and topics such as: What ethical obligations do I have as a member of a polity? What ethical obligations do I have as a professional? Which ethical and political theories can be adapted to address real world situations?

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise key questions in moral and social philosophy;
· Identify and contrast different positions taken by major moral philosophers;
· Apply knowledge of these positions to particular examples and problems;
· Analyse key questions and arguments;
· Formulate arguments for and objections against various positions and approaches;
· Assess and criticise major positions in reference to possible implications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 40 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Lilian O'Brien, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To identify and discuss central issues in contemporary Philosophy of Action.

Module Content: This module explores central issues in contemporary Philosophy of Action. Among the questions considered are the following: What is intentional action and how does it differ from involuntary movements, such as nervous tics? Under what conditions can we be held morally responsible for our intentional actions? How should insanity and addiction be analyzed, and what are the differences between rational and irrational action? Which things are agents - human beings? Computers? Groups of individuals, such as football teams? These and other central questions of the Philosophy of Action will be explored.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify issues and themes central to the Philosophy of Action;
· Describe the intuitive force of the problems and solutions that are studied;
· Apply the methods of philosophy to these puzzles;
· Classify and define concepts used by philosophers in the field;
· Compare and contrast competing philosophical solutions to puzzles;
· Evaluate the success of a particular solution to a particular puzzle.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 50 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 48 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy; Dr Jason Dockstader, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide a historical background to philosophy in the 18th to 19th Centuries.

Module Content: An introduction to some central themes from the Enlightenment Themes include: causality; empiricism; Kant's Copernican Revolution in theory of knowledge and philosophy of mind.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise key questions in Enlightenment philosophy;
· Identify key problems and arguments;
· Apply principle ideas of Enlightenment philosophy to contemporary debates;
· Analyse key questions and arguments;
· Formulate arguments for and objections against major positions in Enlightenment philosophy;
· Assess and criticise major positions in reference to possible implications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: End of Year Written Examination 120 marks; Continuous Assessment 80 marks (2 x In-class Tests).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 3 hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Students must take a 1 x 1.5 hr written paper in lieu of failed Continuous Assessment).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 12.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Directed Study; Directed Study (Individual Consultation with Supervisor).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To introduce students to literature searches in philosophy and to the skills required in explaining and analysing an issue in detail.

Module Content: The number of lecturers assigned will be proportionate to the students registered. Each lecturer will provide guidance on researching a specific theme, and will advise students in their group on literature searches, methods of writing, and will coach students in the preparation of their essay.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe a particular philosophical problem and the major theoretical approaches to solving the problem;
· Distinguish the major theoretical approaches to solving the problem from one another;
· Show the intuive force and philosophical interest of the problem and how plausible the solutions are;
· Appraise one solution that the student finds most compelling;
· Organise the variety of solutions to the problem under headings that show their commonalities and differences;
· Evaluate the philosophical significance of the problem in the context of its implications for other areas of philosophical investigation.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x approx. 5,000 word, maximum, essay to be typed and submitted in duplicate by the end of the first week of the second teaching period).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Students must submit a new 1 x 5,000 word, maximum, essay as prescribed by the department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 or 2.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To critically assess a number of philosophical positions on the nature and possibility of morality.

Module Content: This module introduces students to current philosophical debates in moral philosophy, including consequentialism vs deontology; moral universalism vs moral nihilism; intuitionism and virtue ethics.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Recognise key questions in moral philosophy;
· Identify and contrast different positions taken by major moral philosophers;
· Apply knowledge of these positions to particular examples and problems;
· Analyse key questions and arguments;
· Formulate arguments for and objections against various positions and approaches;
· Assess and criticise major positions in reference to possible implications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 50 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated. (1 x 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: -.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Graham Parkes, College of ACSSS.

Lecturer(s): Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To examine philosophically the relations between philosophy and film.

Module Content: Presentation and discussion of various philosophies of film, and the question of the ways in which one might philosophise, or do philosophy, in the medium of film or video.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe major philosophical theories of film;
· Appreciate similarities and differences amongst those theories;
· Examine the overall methods and approaches used in those theories;
· Apply those theories to a variety of particular films;
· Formulate objections against and arguments for key ideas in a range of theories;
· Appreciate the difficulties and issues involved in the attempt to use film to pursue philosophical enquiry.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 40 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed class participation, a second 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Jason Dockstader, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To identify and discuss key concepts in political philosophy and how they may be put into practice.

Module Content: Key concepts in political philosophy such as justice, equality and human rights will be explored from both a theoretical and an empirical angle.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the important questions that political philosophy addresses;
· Think critically about theories and arguments regarding distributive justice and social justice;
· Discuss the theories, issues and problems fundamental to theories of political philosophy in a careful and sophisticated way;
· Describe important theories of political philosophy in an intelligent, sophisticated manner;
· Write an intelligent and careful analysis of one issue in political philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in-class test 50 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 50 marks.).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. In lieu of failed continuous assessment, 1 x 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Lilian O'Brien, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To identify and discuss critical issues concerning the relation of metaphysics and philosopy of mind.

Module Content: This course will explore the areas of metaphysics concerned with the nature of mental phenomena and how they fit into the causal structure of reality. Questions of the following nature will be addressed: the mind-body problem, the free-will problem, and the problem of personal identity.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify distinctive metaphysical problems and the methods of analytic metaphysics;
· Describe the intuitive force of metaphysical problems;
· Apply the methods of analytic metaphysics to metaphysical problems;
· Classify solutions to disparate problems under the heading of general approaches in metaphysics;
· Compare and contrast competing philosophical solutions to given metaphysical problems;
· Evaluate the success of a particular solution to a given metaphysical problem.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 50 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To study one main philosophical issue or the work of one philosopher from the 21st Century.

Module Content: This course will focus on either one philosophical problem or alternatively on the work of one philosopher from the 21st century.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Define key terms and questions in current debates in philosophy;
· Describe and contrast major philosophical positions;
· Apply philosophical terms to problems in different contexts in philosophical areas;
· Analyse philosophical questions and arguments in current debates;
· Recognise and formulate arguments for and objections against various philosophical positions advanced in current debates;
· Assess and criticise those positions in reference to their possible applications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 40 marks; Continuous Assessment 60 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 12.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Directed Study; Directed Study (Individual Consultation with Supervisor).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To introduce students to literature searches in philosophy and to the skills required in explaining and analysing an issue in detail.

Module Content: The number of lecturers assigned will be proportionate to the students registered. Each lecturer will provide guidance on researching a specific theme, and will advise students in their group on literature searches, methods of writing, and will coach students in the preparation of their essay.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe a particular philosophical problem and the major theoretical approaches to solving the problem;
· Distinguish the major theoretical approaches to solving the problem from one another;
· Show the intuive force and philosophical interest of the problem and how plausible the solutions are;
· Appraise one solution that the student finds most compelling;
· Organise the variety of solutions to the problem under headings that show their commonalities and differences;
· Evaluate the philosophical significance of the problem in the context of its implications for other areas of philosophical investigation.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x approx. 5,000 word, maximum, essay to be typed and submitted in duplicate by the end of the first week in May).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Students must submit a new 1 x 5,000 word, maximum, essay as prescribed by the department.

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None.

Co-requisite(s): None.

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Kevin Cawley, UCC Centre for Chinese Studies.

Module Objective: To critically assess various ideas from the Korean philosophical tradition with regard to their relevance for life in the twenty-first century.

Module Content: This course is an introduction to Korean Philosophy through a reading of sources in translation, such as texts from Korean Neo-Confucianism, Korean Buddhist philosophy, Donghak (Eastern Learning) and Juche philosophy. Our aim will be to try to understand representative ideas on their own terms, while at the same time, inquiring into their relevance for our situation now in the twenty-first century.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe major schools in the Korean Philosophical tradition;
· Assess the influence of these traditions on Korean society throughout history;
· Apply the ideas and approaches studied to issues of contemporary life;
· Recognise and formulate arguments for and objections against major ideas in the Korean Philosophical tradition;
· Assess the relative merits and significance of ideas in Korean Philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in-class test, 40 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay, 40 marks; attendance and participation, 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Alfred Moore, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To familiarise students with philosophical approaches to social and political questions.

Module Content: This module focuses on pertinent issues in politics, as illuminated through political philosophy. The aim of this module is to critically analyse political topics using philosophical method and theory. Issues discussed may include - property rights, equality, representation, the nation/state, international relations and/or war.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the important questions that political philosophy addresses;
· Think critically about theories and arguments made in politics;
· Discuss the theories, issues and problems fundamental to particular political positions;
· Describe important political theories in an intelligent, sophisticated manner;
· Write an intelligent and careful analysis of one issue in political philosophy.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Alfred Moore, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To introduce students to key positions in environmental philosophy and green political theory.

Module Content: Students will examine anthropocentric and ecocentric environmental philosophical positions and explore their implications for contemporary political ideologies such as liberalism, socialism and conservatism, and for key political concepts such as democracy, representation and citizenship.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and differentiate the central positions in environmental philosophy;
· Apply environmental philosophy to questions in political theory of democracy, representation and citizenship;
· Compare and contrast environmental philosophies and political ideologies such as liberalism, socialism and conservatism;
· Evaluate central positions in environmental political thought.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 50 marks; Continuous Assessment 50 marks (1 x 2,500 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment (1 x 2,500 word essay).

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department.).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 or 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To achieve a clearer understanding of the concept of moral responsibility and address problems arising from misunderstandings of this concept.

Module Content: Students will gain a clearer understanding of the concept of moral responsibility. The module will explore how moral responsibility is related to the concepts of human nature, freedom and determinism. This will provide the basis for critical discussion of issues such as blame, praise and desert. Students will consider various cases including the responsibility of corporations, the problems created by luck and randomness, and the possibility of moral responsibility in the face of physical determinism.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the important questions that theories of moral responsibility address;
· Think critically about theories and arguments regarding how we assign moral praise and blame to individuals and to groups;
· Discuss the theories, issues and problems fundamental to theories of moral responsibility in a careful and sophisticated way;
· Describe important theories of moral responsibility in an intelligent, sophisticated manner;
· Write an intelligent and careful analysis of one issue in moral responsibility.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 50 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) (in lieu of in-class test) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated. (1 x 2,500 word essay as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students:

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 24 x 1hr(s) Lectures.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To critically examine a number of theories of human nature and their implications for the question of free will.

Module Content: This course will examine some prominent theories in the free will debate, such as compatibilism, incompatibilism, libertarianism and determinism, and how they relate to some canonical theories of human nature, such as dualism, behaviourism, psychoanalysis and neuroscience. We will also briefly consider the relationship between free will and moral responsibility.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· describe and explain the major philosophical positions concerning free will;
· evaluate the relative strengths and weaknesses of the major philosophical views of free will;
· compare and contrast some major theories of human nature;
· integrate considerations about human nature with the different conceptions of freedom;
· explain the relationship between free will and moral responsibility.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x in class test 40 marks; 1 x 2,500 word essay 40 marks; attendance and participation 20 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 2,500 word essay and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, an additional 2,500 word essay, as prescribed by the Department).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To investigate the politics and philosophy of Human Rights

Module Content: The idea of human rights is one of the most pervasive features of our political reality, and yet the concept of 'human rights' remains vague and contested. The aim of this course is to explore the nature and political significance of human rights. We will try to find an answer to some of the following key questions: What are human rights? Are human rights universal? Which rights are human rights? How do we resolve a conflict of human rights? Can human rights be justified?

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the acquisition of a basic body of knowledge directly related to the concept of human rights;
· Evaluate the relationship between politics and philosophy;
· Explore the possible linkages between key concepts in political philosophy, including rights, duties, liberty and equality;
· Locate the various ideologies promoting disparate theories of human rights;
· Outline a possible model of human rights.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 15.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To investigate the philosophical foundations of Human Rights.

Module Content: This course is prompted by the widespread belief that notwithstanding the extensive literature on human rights, we still don't have a clear enough idea of what human rights are. The aim of this course is to explore in more detail the philosophical foundations of human rights.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the acquisition of an advanced body of knowledge directly related to the concept of human rights;
· Evaluate the relationship between poltics and ethics;
· Explore the possible linkages between key concepts in political philosophy, including agency, dignity, personhood and social justice;
· Locate the historical and conceptual development from natural law to natural rights to human rights;
· Outline a possible model of human rights.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of continuous assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 15.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (and self directed study.).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Joel Vincent Walmsley, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To acquaint students with some central issues in philosophy of mind, and its cognate areas.

Module Content: In this course, we will focus primarily on the issues in philosophy of mind which many authors have taken to be important for answering questions about the nature of the world, the nature of persons, and the relationships between them.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain the major philosophical positions concerning the nature of mind;
· Locate areas of difference and similarity among the theories considered;
· Apply specific insights from philosophy of mind to questions in cognate areas;
· Construct arguments and examples to defend or critique theories of mind.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essays).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To investigate the scope, content, and subject of justice in the global context.

Module Content: What do states and their citizens owe to foreigners? Should we pay into a global tax system that globally redistributes goods? Some theories of global justice hold that we have very few, if any, duties to foreigners. Other theories hold that there is no relevant difference between compatriots and foreigners, and duties to compatriots should also be extended to foreigners. In this course, we will explore different theories of global justice, including nationalism, cosmopolitanism, and statist theories.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the important questions that theories of global justice address;
· Think critically about theories and arguments regarding international justice and the global distribution of goods;
· Discuss the theories, issues and problems, fundamental to theories of global justice, in a careful and sophisticated way;
· Describe important theories of international justice in an intelligent, sophisticated manner;
· Write an intelligent and careful analysis of one issue in international justice.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (and self directed study).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To acquaint students with Hegel's philosophical system and its influence on 19th century Continental philosophy.

Module Content: This module deals with one of the most ambitious projects of philosophy: G.W.F. Hegel's vision of a system of "absolute knowing" as it is presented in the "Phenomenology of Spirit". The first part of the course will be dedicated to a close reading of the very first sections (Preface, Introduction) of the book and a general overview of the remaining chapters. The second part of the course will look at how Hegel's philosophy influenced two other major thinkers of the 19th century, namely Ludwig Feuerbach ("The Essence of Christianity") and Karl Marx.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain the central features of Hegel's philosophy;
· Critically assess the development of Hegel's philosophy in the 19th century by his followers;
· Critically assess the influence of Hegel's phiosophy on the development of Marxism;
· Construct arguments and examples to defend or critique major Idealist and Marxist positions.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 4,000 word essay 140 marks; attendance and participation 60 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 4,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August) and in lieu of failed elements of attendance and participation a second 4,000 word essay.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Hans-Georg Moeller, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To investigate criticisms of morality in Chinese and Western philosophies.

Module Content: This module explores philosophical postitions that either criticise or condemn morality. Starting from a relatively recent Western criticism of morality (Wittgenstein's "Lecture on Ethics") we will focus on "negative ethics" in the Chinese tradition. Then we will see how ancient Daoist "negative ethics" has influenced both medieval and contemporary Zen (or in Chinese: Chan) Buddhist moral criticisms. Finally, two contemporary Western representatives of a "negative ethics" (John Gray, Niklas Luhmann) will be studied.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstrate the acquisition of a body of knowledge related to the concept of "negative ethics" in Eastern and Western philosophical traditions;
· Evaluate ethical positions and their criticisms;
· Have an understanding of how criticisms of morality have elvolved within different cultural and historical contexts;
· Be capable of understanding and, potentially, expressing critical views within contemporary ethical debates.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (4,000 word essay 140 marks; attendance and participation 60 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of continuous assement must be repeated (1 x 4,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August). In lieu of failed attedance and participation, a second 4,000 word essay as prescribed by the department.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (Individual supervision).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To read, understand and review selected literature.

Module Content: A review (maximum 5,000 words) of literature relevant to a minor dissertation. Each student meets his/her supervisor weekly and submits written reviews of relevant literature. Submission date on or before 30th April.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Collect and report on the most relevant literature in a research area chosen by the student in consultation with a supervisor;
· Identify themes and positions in the literature collected;
· Organise the report according to the themes and positions thus identified;
· Examine the different themes or positions in order to differentiate and contrast them;
· Re-organise and summarise the different reports in one coherent review of the relevant literature;
· Ascertain these literature reviews with regard to a possible minor thesis topic.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (A review essay of max 5,000 words 150 marks; plus oral presentation 50 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August) plus a second 2,000 word essay in lieu of failed oral presentation.

Credit Weighting: 30

Teaching Period(s): Teaching/Research Period 3. (May - September).

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: Other (Individual Supervision).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To analyse an approved philosophical topic.

Module Content: A minor dissertation written under the supervision of a staff member on an approved topic.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Engage in original research in philosophy;
· Develop individual research strategies and produce critical bibliographies;
· Identify and utilise the major interpretive and argumentative strategies of philosophy;
· Analyse and criticise relevant positions and approaches on an academic level appropriate to postgraduate research;
· Demonstrate ability to write critically, logically and systematically, using proper citation in keeping with standards of postgraduate research;
· Argue for an original position on an advanced level of critical reflection.

Assessment: Total Marks 600: Continuous Assessment 600 marks (3 Copies of typed minor dissertation (max 15,000 words) to be submitted by the First Friday in October).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: No Supplemental Examination.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Graham Parkes, College of ACSSS.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: This module will introduce students to the major ideas and principles of Chinese and Japanese philosophies of the arts and aesthetics, on the basis of some acquaintance with examples of relevant works of art from those traditions.

Module Content: Beginning with China, we look at classical Chinese theories of poetry, calligraphy and landscape painting, and how these come together with other ideas and practices in the philosophy behind the classical Chinese garden. At the same time we examine Confucian and Daoist understandings of the social and natural worlds and the nature of artistic creativity.
The second part of the semester is devoted to Japan, where we study the additions and modifications made to the ideas that were 'imported' from China along with the writing system and Buddhist philosophies and practices. The main focus here will be on the Zen notion of the various arts (archery, calligraphy, tea ceremony, flower arrangement, ink-and-wash painting, and garden-making) as ways of living. We end with a consideration of the philosophical underpinnings of certain genres of Japanese film.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain the major philosophical ideas from the Chinese and Japanese traditions concerning the nature of the arts, artistic creativity, and aesthetic appreciation;
· Locate areas of difference and similarity between Chinese and Japanese understandings;
· Apply specific insights from the Chinese and Japanese traditions to corresponding issues in Western philosophy;
· Construct arguments and examples to defend or critique Chinese and Japanese ideas about aesthetics and the arts.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 4,000 word essay 140 marks; attendance and participation 60 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 4,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August, and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, a second 4,000 word essay).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Prof Graham Parkes, College of ACSSS.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: This module will survey a range of philosophies of nature - from the ancient Greek, Judaeo-Christian, and classical Chinese and Japanese traditions - as a basis for reflecting on the various environmental crises we currently face. Many of these philosophies are naturally, and inextricably, connected with religious understandings of the place of human beings in the world.

Module Content: In the western tradition, the mainstream tends to understand the ultimate reality (Being, God, the Good, etc.) as transcendent to the world of time and space, with the consequence that nature is regarded as relatively unimportant in relation to the 'Last Things'. However, there is a side-current of thought that denies the existence of a transcendent realm and affirms all value to be immanent in (or deriving from human beings in) this world, as the only one there is, and consequently regards nature as deserving of our care and respect.
In the East-Asian traditions the situation is reversed: the mainstream philosophies and religions emphasize immanence, and regards the natural world as having intrinsic value and as the site of any salvation that might be possible for human beings.
We end by considering how these various philosophies of nature might be more or less helpful in finding ways to promote human flourishing without impeding or curtailing the flourishing of the natural world on which we ultimately depend.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain the major understandings of the natural world from the Ancient Greek, Judaeo-Christian, and classical Chinese and Japanese traditions;
· Locate areas of difference and similarity among these different understandings;
· Apply specific insights from these philosophies of nature to contemporary environmental problems;
· Construct arguments and examples to defend or critique these various philosophies of nature.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 4,000 word essay 140 marks; attendance and participation 60 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 4,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August) and, in lieu of failed attendance and participation, a second 4,000 word essay.

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (and Self Directed Study).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: This seminar will introduce students to major ideas and principles of Western philosophies of the arts and aesthetics, on the basis of some acquaintance with examples of relevant works of art from those traditions.

Module Content: The aim of this module is to convey an understanding of Western, especially European, philosophy of art; and of aesthetics understood as a broader philosophical field. This involves a review of some of the most influential themes in the history of aesthetics as they bear on contemporary debate. In particular, we will discuss philosophical reflections on art, the idea of an aesthetic dimension of human experience in general, as well as the relation between philosophical practice and art practice.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain major methodological tenents and general approaches within Western aesthetics;
· Contrast different central positions;
· Use philosophical analysis to clarify a range of problems and phenomena concerning art and aesthetic experience;
· Identify fundamental merits and problems of different prominent views;
· Formulate arguments for and objections against major positions;
· Assess and criticise major positions in reference to possible implications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay maximum).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (plus Self Directed Study).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To introduce students to Kantian and phenomenological approaches to perception, experience and consciousness.

Module Content: The aim of this module is to convey an understanding of Kantian philosophy and phenomenology as critical projects and distinct philosophical methods. This involves a review of central themes in both Kantian philosophy and phenomenology, including problems of perception and imagination; self-awareness and inter-subjectivity, as well as issues concerning embodiment.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Describe and explain major methodological tenets and general approaches within Kantian philosophy and phenomenology;
· Contrast different central positions in both Kantian philosophy and phenomenology;
· Use phenomenological analysis to clarify a range of philosophical problems and phenomena;
· Identify fundamental merits and problems of different prominent views;
· Formulate arguments for and objections against major positions;
· Assess and criticise major positions in reference to possible implications and consequences.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word, maximum, essay as prescribed by the Lecturer).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 6 x 4hr(s) Seminars (plus independent studies).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: A sociological and philosophical analysis of knowledge and its development in the medium of communication aimed at the cultivation of a reflexive attitude and the refinement of theoretical and methodological competences and skills.

Module Content: Participants in this course will study and critically engage with the work of some of the most important contemporary theorists in feminist philosophy and social theory, by reading closely the original writings of these thinkers (set on a week by week basis) and engaging in critical dialogue in class. The readings covered will outline these theorists perspective on substantive questions in contemporary societies, including: bodily experience, knowledge and action, multiculturalism, global migration, ethnicity, emotions, family, sexualities, health, human rights, intimate citizenship and gender justice.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Outline some of the main themes and concepts of contemporary feminist debate;
· Compare and contrast different theoretical and methodological approaches to the analysis of sex and gender;
· Describe and analyse processes of the production, enforcement and transformation of gender specific demensions of human life;
· With special emphasis on sex and gender, compare and contrast different factors and forces operative in social life, and analyse their dynmanic interrelation;
· Evaluate the positive and negative outcomes generated by the interaction between gender and other factors and forces involved operative in contemporary societies;
· Relate their own beliefs, ideas and attitudes to contemporary gender issues and their analysis;
· Design sociological and philosophical analysis of the role of gender in society.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of continuous assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 15

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (Political Philosophy Workshop).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To investigate the nature of and justifications for state territorial entitlements.

Module Content: On what grounds may a group claim a right to territory? Should foreign countries have access to natural resources within our territory? What are the foundations of principles regarding immigration? When is it permissible for a group to secede a territory from a state? In this course, we will explore different theories of territorial entitlement and the role that territory plays in the global context of political, social, and economic justice.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Identify the important questions that theories of territorial rights addresses;
· Think critically about theories and arguments regarding territorial claims;
· Discuss the theories, issues and problems, fundamental to theories of territory, in a careful and sophisticated way;
· Describe important theories of territory in an intelligent, sophisticated manner;
· Write and intelligent and careful analysis of one issue in territorial rights theory.

Assessment: Total Marks 300: Continuous Assessment 300 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay 200 marks; oral presentation 100 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of continuous assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 word essay and a second 2,000 word essay in lieu of failed oral presentation to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 15

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Min 6, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (Political Philosophy Workshop).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To investigate the politics and philosophy of Human Rights

Module Content: Human Rights issues have been much discussed in recent years. Political leaders incorporate them into their policy initiatives, while critics favour a more pragmatic approach. The current debate over human rights has failed to address the fundamental philosophical questions involved. The aim of this course is to explore the nature and political significance of human rights.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Demonstate the acquisition of a body of knowledge directly related to the concept of human rights;
· Evaluate the relationship between politics and philosophy;
· Explore the possible linkages between key concepts in political philosophy, including liberty, equality and justice, and rights;
· Locate the various ideologies promoting disparate theories of human rights;
· Outline a possible model of human rights.

Assessment: Total Marks 300: Continuous Assessment 300 marks (1 x 5,000 word essay 200 marks; oral presentation 100 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Failed elements of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (1 x 5,000 essay and a second 2,000 word essay in lieu of failed oral presentation to be submitted by the third Friday in August).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 2.

No. of Students: Max 25.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 48hr(s) Lectures (Seminar, Discussion, Group Work, Presentation); Other (152 hours course work and self-directed learning).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Vittorio Bufacchi, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: This module prepares students to think critically about the philosophical issues that arise in relation to death and dying, within the traditions of Eastern and Western Philosophy.

Module Content: The module attempts to come to terms with the many socially constructed meanings of death and dying. We will draw from both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, as well as explore representations of death and dying in literature and film from many different cultural traditions.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Explain the difference between major philosophical traditions;
· Identify the philosophically salient features in the literature on death and dying;
· Evaluate the role of Eastern and Western philosophy in understanding the meaning of death and dying;
· Distinguish between different cultural approaches to death and dying;
· Consider their own values in relation to the values of others and to the literature discussed on the course;
· Analyse arguments and identify assumptions and common mistakes in reasoning;
· Identify and discuss philosophical considerations encountered in clinical practice regarding death and dying.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 3,000 word essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 50%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated. (Students must revise and resubmit written assignment, as prescribed by the School of Sociology and Philosophy).

Credit Weighting: 5

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Period 1.

No. of Students: Max 20.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars.

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Cara Nine, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To provide health-care professionals with relevant skills for ethical assessments.

Module Content: Professionals can become insensitive to the ethical standards of the community in which they work. This module is designed to raise ethical awareness among health-care professionals. Among the issues discussed are: justice in the distribution of limited health-care; consent to treatment; advising patients adequately of risks in treatment; paternalism; informing patients of their diagnosis; multiculturalism.

Learning Outcomes:

Assessment: Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (2 x 2,000 word essays, 50 marks per essay).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated (Passed elements of Continuous Assessment are carried forward. Submit 1 or 2 x 2,000 word essay(s) as appropriate.).

Credit Weighting: 10

Teaching Period(s): Teaching Periods 1 and 2.

No. of Students: Min 5, Max 30.

Pre-requisite(s): None

Co-requisite(s): None

Teaching Methods: 12 x 2hr(s) Seminars (plus independent research).

Module Co-ordinator: Dr Julia Jansen, Department of Philosophy.

Lecturer(s): Staff, Department of Philosophy.

Module Objective: To enhance doctoral students' writing and presentation skills as well as develop research methods, publication and application strategies.

Module Content: The aim of this module is to facilitate doctoral students in developing their writing and presentation skills. By way of discussing material relevant to their PhD projects and by presenting their research, students learn to address issues of professional development (publication, grant application, job application, networking, etc.) This will help to overcome the tendency to isolation that can limit the intellectual ambition and professional competitiveness of PhDs, and which can limit the ability of graduates to develop postdoctoral research agendas, to publish their research and to find further funding or employment. Students will be expected to deliver papers and writing samples on their research area or related material and to participate in discussion and feedback for others.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
· Enhance their expertise in their field of research;
· Clearly communicate research results in speech and in writing;
· Identify thesis (and general research) problematics;
· Present clearly defined research aims, objectives and questions
· Develop a strategic awareness of professional development targets.

Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (written work 5,000 words maximum 120 marks; oral presentation 80 marks).

Compulsory Elements: Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): Work which is submitted late shall be assigned a mark of zero (or a Fail Judgement in the case of Pass/Fail modules).

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: No End of Year Written Examination.

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: Marks in passed element(s) of Continuous Assessment are carried forward, Failed element(s) of Continuous Assessment must be repeated.


		Book of Modules 2012/2013
		Philosophy

Book of Modules 2012/2013

Philosophy