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TOPICS IN ANALYTIC PHILOSOPHY

Module code: PH334A
Credits: 5
Semester: 2
Department: PHILOSOPHY
International:

	Overview
	This module traces the development of twentieth-century analytic philosophy through studying the work of some of its major exponents. The focus will be on philosophy of language, thought and world. An emphasis of the module will be the philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889-1951) as found both in his early Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus and in his later Philosophical Investigations (a work Wittgenstein was in the process of revising and editing during his time in Ireland). Other key thinkers to be studied will be Gottlob Frege, Bertrand Russell, Rudolf Carnap, A. J. Ayer, Wilfrid Sellars, W. V. O. Quine, Donald Davidson, Saul Kripke and John McDowell.

Overview

This module traces the development of twentieth-century analytic philosophy through studying the work of some of its major exponents. The focus will be on philosophy of language, thought and world. An emphasis of the module will be the philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889-1951) as found both in his early Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus and in his later Philosophical Investigations (a work Wittgenstein was in the process of revising and editing during his time in Ireland). Other key thinkers to be studied will be Gottlob Frege, Bertrand Russell, Rudolf Carnap, A. J. Ayer, Wilfrid Sellars, W. V. O. Quine, Donald Davidson, Saul Kripke and John McDowell.

	Learning Outcomes
	On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: Discuss the definition of ‘analytic philosophy’ and identify its chief characteristics. Identify and critically assess the major philosophical tenets in the thought of Ludwig Wittgenstein. Describe and evaluate the philosophical approach to language, thought and world proposed by a number of key exponents of analytic philosophy. Explain the emergence and centrality of the problem of meaning and truth in twentieth century philosophy from an analytic-philosophical point of view. Articulate and demonstrate, through critical written communication skills and argument style in philosophy, an ability to address pivotal philosophical questions regarding some of the central concepts of analytic philosophy.

Learning Outcomes

Teaching & Learning methods

Assessment

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