units

ATS1835

Faculty of Arts

Monash University

Undergraduate - Unit

This unit entry is for students who completed this unit in 2014 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
Organisational UnitPhilosophy
OfferedClayton First semester 2014 (Off-campus)
Caulfield Second semester 2014 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2014 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2014 (Off-campus)
Clayton Summer semester A 2014 (Off-campus)
Coordinator(s)Dr Paul Silva (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.

Assessment

Written work and exercises: 60%
Exam: 40%

Chief examiner(s)

Workload requirements

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

Off-campus attendance requirements

Off-campus: no timetabled contact hours

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

Prohibitions

ATS1372