This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
What do philosophers do? How do they think? What do they typically think about? How do philosophers write? What sorts of writing are acceptable in philosophy? How should you write? How should philosophy best be read in order to be understood and assessed?'
In this module we will introduce you to some of the most interesting questions in philosophy, both from its history and from current debates. As we do this we will show you how to think, read and write as a philosopher.
Total Contact Hours: 20
Private Study Hours: 130
Total Study Hours: 150
Main assessment methods:
Paraphrase Exercise (500 words) – 30%
Essay (1,200 words) – 30%
Public Philosophy Assignment (750 words) – 30%
Seminar Participation – 10%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% Coursework
Indicative reading:
Martinich, A.P. (2005) Philosophical Writing: An Introduction (Oxford: Blackwell)
Warburton, N. (2004) Philosophy: the Essential Study Guide (London: Routledge)
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate understanding of some basic questions in philosophy about a range of issues;
2 Appreciate various philosophical topics;
3 Read analytical philosophy in a way that is considered, reflective, and imaginative;
4 Write analytical philosophy in a way that is careful, logical, structured and coherent.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate skills in critical analysis and argument through reading and listening to others;
2 Demonstrate their ability to make basic ideas understandable in their writing;
3 Demonstrate their ability to make basic ideas clearly understandable in their public speaking;
4 Demonstrate their ability to work autonomously and to take responsibility for their learning.
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