PHM5030

Metaphysics and epistemology A

Aubrey Townsend and Richard Hanley

8 points
* 2 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: PHL2110 and third-year subject in metaphysics/epistemology (refer to the Arts undergraduate handbook); permission without the prerequisite may be given by the head

Objectives Students successfully completing this course will have a thorough understanding of recent work in metaphysics and epistemology, with the primary emphasis on metaphysics. In particular, they will have a good grasp of the various issues surrounding the notion of realism, idealism and anti-realism, in application both to ontological and ethical questions.

Synopsis This is an advanced subject in contemporary metaphysics and epistemology. Topics to be covered will include some of the following: the nature of space and time, theories of causation, theories of mind and action, the problem of universals, probability and induction, and scepticism. The subject will focus on major recent work in the area. A reading list may be obtained from the department.

Assessment Written (6000 words): 100%)

Prescribed texts

A collection of readings available from the department