PHL1080 - Philosophy: Time, Self and Freedom

Leader: Monima Chadha, Rosalyn Furney

Offered

Caulfield Second semester 2007 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2007 (Off-campus)
Clayton Second semester 2007 (Off-campus)
Clayton Summer semester A 2007 (Off-campus)
Gippsland Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

The unit consists of two components: 'Reason and argument' and 'Metaphysical issues'.

1. 'Reason and argument' extends the treatment of topics dealt with in the 'Reason and argument' component of PHL1070 and introduces some central ideas of modern formal logic.
2. 'Metaphysical issues' examines some major topics in metaphysics, concerned with time and freedom, the nature of the self, and the possibility of artificial intelligence. The content will be similar to that for the 'Time, Self and Freedom' component of PHL1020. More information on first year philosophy is available at http://www.arts.monash.edu.au/phil/undergraduate/firstyear.html

Objectives

On completing this subject students will have an understanding of some main theories in metaphysics and will have reflected on the impact of recent developments in science and philosophy on our most fundamental views about ourselves and our place in the world. The subject will further develop capacities for critical thought by introducing students to the systematic study of techniques for the evaluation of arguments
and reasoning.

Assessment

Essay (1200 words): 20%
Four exercises (covering both parts of the course): 40%
Examination (2 hours): 40%

Contact hours

3 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 2 hour seminar) per week.

Prohibitions

PHL1020