Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit covers some fundamental issues which are central in philosophy and which provide an introduction to contemporary philosophical debate. The topics are organised around three major themes—God, Mind and Knowledge. It covers such issues as whether it is reasonable to believe in God, whether we have grounds for believing in the external world, whether the mind and brain are really distinct and what makes us count as the same person over time.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 option in the Philosophy major sequence
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) identify and evaluate arguments in philosophical texts; (2) independently construct arguments for philosophical positions; (3) understand and apply the methodologies of contemporary philosophy; (4) identify and evaluate assumptions underpinning philosophical viewpoints on topics such as ethics, free will, knowledge and religion; (5) demonstrate sound research skills and written and oral communication skills; (6) demonstrate an understanding of important historical and contemporary philosophical ideas in areas such as ethics, free will, knowledge and religion; (7) articulate and understand a number of philosophical problems in relation to religion; (8) articulate and understand key issues in metaphysics and epistemology; (9) reason effectively towards answers in the above areas; and (10) evaluate philosophical positions in the above areas.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) essay; (2) examination; and (3) participation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Chris Letheby
Unit rules
Incompatibility
PHIL1125 God, Mind and Knowledge
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week (for 10 weeks)
workshops: 1 hour per week (for 10 weeks)
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.