PHL2650

Philosophy of mind

Graham Oppy

8 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton - Prerequisites: First-year philosophy

Objectives On successfully completing the subject students should have an understanding of some of the basic problems in the philosophy of mind; they should also have a grasp of some main lines of solution to those problems. This should serve as a foundation for further work in cognitive theory.

Synopsis The central concern of this subject will be the nature of consciousness in humans. This will involve an examination of the major theories of the mind/body relationship, and also involve the question of whether some kind of non-biological entity, such as a computer or an android, could reason, have feelings, or be a moral agent.

Assessment Two essays (2500 words each): 40% each - One 1-hour examination: 20% - One essay may optionally be replaced by a two-hour examination.

Prescribed texts

Braddon-Mitchell D and Jackson F The philosophy of mind and cognition Blackwell

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