ATS2872 - Topics in Indian philosophy - 2018

The unit considers a range of topics in metaphysics and ethics from an Indian perspective. The aim is to contrast the views of the conservative Hindu philosophers with those of the Indian heretics. Among the metaphysical topics special emphasis is placed on the theories of the self and their relation to interesting Hindu doctrines of Karma and Rebirth. The course also explores the relations between karma and other enigmatic traditional Indian concepts.

Students who complete this unit will:

• understand the central philosophical tenets of traditional Indian systems;
• deepen their understanding of central issues in philosophy by considering them from a novel perspective;
• appreciate how traditional Indian philosophers envisage a deep connection between their metaphysical and ethical positions;
• be motivated and well equipped to exploit traditional Indian ideas through an understanding of a variety of problems in contemporary metaphysics and moral philosophy and attempts at resolving them.

Within semester assessment: 70% + Exam: 30%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Off-campus: no timetabled contact hours

Religious studies

Philosophy