PHL2850

Topics in Indian Philosophy

(ART)

Monima Chadha

6 points + 2 hours per week + First semester + Clayton + This subject is also offered in distance mode in every semester + Prerequisites: A first-year 6 point subject in Philosophy + Prohibition: PHL3850

Synopsis: The subject considers a range of topics in philosophy: metaphysics, ethics and theory of knowledge from an Indian perspective. The aim is to contrast the views of the conservative Hindu philosophers with those of the Indian heretics. Among the metaphysical topics special emphasis is placed on the theories of the self and their relation to interesting Hindu doctrines of Karma and Rebirth. The doctrine of karma raises important questions about moral responsibility and accountability for one's action and thus ties the metaphysics closely to the ethics. The course also explores the relations between karma and other enigmatic traditional Indian concepts. www.arts.monash.edu.au/phil/undergraduate/

Assessment: Two exercises (750 words): 10% each + Essay of (2000 words): 50% + Examination (1 hour): 30% + Students will have the option of replacing one or both of the exercises by participation in an on-line discussion via the portals interface