PHL3240

Aristotle and Aristotelianism

(ART)

Dirk Baltzly

6 points + 2 hours per week + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: 12 points in second year philosophy units. PHL2130 is recommended, but not required.

Synopsis: We will examine those aspects of Aristotle's philosophy that have had the greatest impact on western thought. From his logical works we will consider his views on universals and particulars, his account of the nature of scientific knowledge and its origins in sense experience. From his Physics we will examine the distinction between matter and form, the nature of time, motion, the infinite, and the question of whether the world has a beginning. Finally we consider his account of the nature of humans and rational thought in On the soul. In each case we will advert to later developments in Aristotelianism. www.arts.monash.edu.au/phil/undergraduate/lateryear.html

Assessment: Essay (2500 words) 60% + 2 hour examination 40%