Courses :: Module, INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY 1

	Overview
	This module will provide students with a general introduction to philosophy with a special focus on moral and political philosophy in the second part of the module. The first part will introduce students to what philosophy is, outline the main historical eras of philosophy (ancient Greek, Medieval, Modern and Contemporary), and distinguish the major subdivisions of the discipline (e.g., Epistemology, Philosophy of Science, Metaphysics etc. by looking at some of the most important topics addressed in those disciplines. The second part of the module will introduce students to some of the most important questions asked in Moral and Political Philosophy such as �What is the good life?�, �How should we act?� or �Is the state justified in inflicting punishment on those who infringe state law?� This second part will also engage with contemporary ethical debates, such as the debates on euthanasia or environmental ethics.

Overview

This module will provide students with a general introduction to philosophy with a special focus on moral and political philosophy in the second part of the module. The first part will introduce students to what philosophy is, outline the main historical eras of philosophy (ancient Greek, Medieval, Modern and Contemporary), and distinguish the major subdivisions of the discipline (e.g., Epistemology, Philosophy of Science, Metaphysics etc. by looking at some of the most important topics addressed in those disciplines. The second part of the module will introduce students to some of the most important questions asked in Moral and Political Philosophy such as �What is the good life?�, �How should we act?� or �Is the state justified in inflicting punishment on those who infringe state law?� This second part will also engage with contemporary ethical debates, such as the debates on euthanasia or environmental ethics.

	Learning Outcomes
	On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: Identify different perspectives on what philosophy is and how it is done. Distinguish the four major historical eras of philosophy: ancient Greek, medieval, modern and contemporary. Describe the different branches of philosophy such as epistemology, metaphysics, philosophy of science, moral philosophy etc.; and relate one branch to another. Debate some of the main ideas discussed in the module. Discuss arguments for and against different positions in moral philosophy such as virtue ethics, deontology, or utilitarianism. Apply different ethical concepts to questions such as euthanasia or environmental ethics. Present and articulate, in written and oral format, coherent arguments for positions taken in relation to different philosophical topics.

Learning Outcomes

	Autumn Supplementals/Resits
	Essay assignment (c. 2,000 words)

Autumn Supplementals/Resits

	Timetable
	This timetable is not currently available, please contact the Philosophy Department.

Timetable

Search form

Courses / Module

INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY 1