An Introduction to Philosophy

Pre-requisites for enrolment

No previous knowledge required.

Content of Course

1. Introduction
   What is philosophy? What are its origins? Why do we do it?
2. Epistemology
   What is knowledge? What can we know? How do we know things?
3. Philosophy of Mind
   What am I? Am I my mind or my body? What ensures my survival over time?
4. Philosophy of Religion
   Does God exist? What are the arguments for God’s existence? How can we account for evil in the world?
5. Metaphysics
   Do I have free will? Are all my actions determined by factors outside my control? Am I ever responsible for anything I do?
6. Moral Philosophy
   Should we be moral? Is right and wrong relative to culture? How do I know how to act?
7. Applied Ethics
   Is abortion wrong? Is there a difference between killing and letting die? Do animals have rights?
8. Political Philosophy
   Why do we live in societies? What rights do I have? What are my duties?
9. Aesthetics
   What is beauty? Is beauty in the eye of the beholder? What is art?
10. Existentialism
    Why are we here? Does life have meaning? How should I live?

Teaching method(s)

Combination of lectures and discussion.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Display familiarity with some key philosophical issues;
• Identify the positions of various philosophers on these issues;
• Explain the strengths and weaknesses of these positions;
• Express an understanding of the nature and value of philosophy.

Sources

Core Readings

Essential reading will be provided on a weekly basis, however, students would do well to avail themselves of a basic introductory text. The following are highly recommended:

Blackburn, S. 1999. Think. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press.
Nagel, T. 1987. What does it all mean? Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press.
Warburton, N., 2004. Philosophy: the Basics, 4th ed., London: Routledge.
Warburton, N., ed., 2005. Philosophy: Basic Readings, 2nd ed., London: Routledge.

Web Sources

James Mooney’s (course tutor) website: www.filmandphilosophy.com and twitter account: @film_philosophy

Class Handouts

Handouts will be provided on a weekly basis.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.