PHM4840

Metaphysics and epistemology A

Graham Oppy

8 points -2 hours per week -First semester -Clayton -Prerequisites: PHL2110 and third-year subject in metaphysics/epistemology (refer to the Arts undergraduate handbook) or permission of head of the department.

Objectives Students successfully completing this subject will have a thorough understanding of recent work in metaphysics and epistemology, with the primary emphasis on metaphysics. In particular, they will have a good grasp of the various issues surrounding the notion of realism, idealism and anti-realism, in application both to ontological and ethical questions.

Synopsis This is a foundational subject in contemporary metaphysics and epistemology. Topics to be covered will include some of the following: the nature of space and time, theories of causation, theories of mind and action, the problem of universals, probability and induction, and scepticism. The subject will focus on major recent work in the area. A reading list may be obtained from the department.

Assessment Written (6000 words): 100% -Option of 3000-word essay and 3-hour examination

Prescribed texts

A collection of readings available from the department

Back to the 1999 Arts Handbook