units

ATS1835

Faculty of Arts

18 September 2017 22 December 2024
Monash University

Undergraduate - Unit

This unit entry is for students who completed this unit in 2012 only. For students planning to study the unit, please refer to the unit indexes in the the current edition of the Handbook. If you have any queries contact the managing faculty for your course or area of study.

print version

6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

LevelUndergraduate
FacultyFaculty of Arts
OfferedClayton First semester 2012 (Off-campus)
Caulfield Second semester 2012 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2012 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2012 (Off-campus)
Clayton Summer semester A 2012 (Off-campus)
Coordinator(s)Dr Josh May (On-campus); Dr Monima Chadha (Off-campus)

Notes

Previously coded PHL1080

Synopsis

ATS1835 is an introduction to metaphysics. It deals with questions about the nature of time, causation, human freedom, personal identity and the possibility of artificial intelligence. An unusual feature of the subject is that each topic is introduced by way of science fiction stories in which metaphysical issues are explored. So the first topic takes off from a discussion of time travel.

Outcomes

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. and reasoning.

Assessment

Written work and exercises: 60%
Exam: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Josh May

Contact hours

one 2-hour lecture and one 1-hour tutorial per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Philosophy

Prohibitions

ATS1372

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.arts.monash.edu.au/philosophy/ugrad/firstyear/phl1080.php