PHL2110

Res Cogitans: Descartes on Mind and Knowledge (6 points)

(ARTS)

Leader: Aubrey Townsend

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2004 (OCL)
Clayton Second semester 2004 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2004 (OCL)
Gippsland Second semester 2004 (Day)
Clayton Summer 2004 (OCL)
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2005 (OCL)
Gippsland First semester 2005 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2005 (OCL)
Clayton Summer 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis:

Objectives: On completion of the subject students will have read the Meditations of Descartes and in reading them will have gained an understanding of the complete Cartesian system and its influences on the development of philosophical theories in epistemology and metaphysics. They will have an enhanced capacity for critical and rigorous reading of a philosophical text, and skills in the evaluation of philosophical positions in the context of an integrated system. They will have reflected on some contemporary work with roots in the Cartesian tradition. Students completing the subject will develop skills in writing and argument in ways that are responsive to a developing discussion in seminars either face-to-face or via the Portals interface.

Assessment: Two exercises (750 words each): 20% + Essay (2000 words): 40% + Seminar participation 10% + Test (1 hour): 30% + Distance Education: The expository exercises and seminar participation will be replaced by contributions to the electronic discussion group. On-campus students have the option of proceeding in the same way as DE students

Contact Hours: 2 x 1 hour class per week

Prerequisites: A first-year unit in Philosophy or Psychology