Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2020 - 2021
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Description This module provides a formal and systematic introduction to important themes, issues and concepts in Western philosophy. Grounded in the history of the topic, the module will examine how different philosophers, from ancient through to contemporary periods, have approached fundamental questions regarding the nature of reality, values, and truth. As well as considering the emergence of Western philosophy, students will consider a range of different arguments regarding values, truth, reality, the self, the existence of god, and the organisation of society. The module aims to provide a solid foundation for subsequent study. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. comprehend central issues and themes in the history of Western philosophy; 2. situate and assess these issues and themes in their wider historical and cultural context; 3. understand the wider social, political and cultural significance of these issues and themes; 4. engage in close analysis and interpretation of important philosophical texts; 5. develop and demonstrate enhanced analytical and interpretative skills; 6. enjoy an enhanced appreciation of key elements in Western intellectual culture; 7. develop enhanced insight and reflexivity regarding their own values, principles and outlook; 8. synthesize their knowledge of different aspects of philosophy in the Western tradition. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and
Learning Activities From Myth to Reason: The Emergence of Western PhilosophyConsiders the earliest Greek philosophers and their concernsWhy Should We Be Good? Socrates and the SophistsConsiders debates in ancient Athens regarding human nature, the status of ethics and morality, and the nature of 'the good life'Leaving the Cave: Plato's Theory of 'Forms'Considers the metaphysical speculation of Plato, regarding wider reality and truthScepticism and the Self: Themes in Descartes' "Meditations"Considers Descartes' search for certainty and his treatment of the subject'Natural Theology'Considers a variety of arguments for (and against) the existence of God, with particular focus on Aquinas, Descartes and HumeIndividual and Society: Issues in Political PhilosophyConsiders a variety of arguments regarding the nature of politics and the ways in which society might be organised. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources 34936, website, Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 0, Entries on: Socrates; Plato’s Middle Period Metaphysics; Descartes; Hobbes’s Moral and Political Philosophy; Hume on Religion, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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