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 introduces students to some central ideas in Eastern traditions such as Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta, examining these ideas from a Western philosophical perspective. Topics covered include the nature of ultimate reality, consciousness, the self, suffering and happiness, karma, free will, the scope of knowledge, ethics and the ultimate goal of human existence. Classical and contemporary sources are used. Some of these topics are approached with an eye to seeking convergence with ideas in Western philosophy, for example, in Hume's idea that there is no self.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 option in the Philosophy major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) clearly convey, in spoken and written discussion, Eastern and related philosophical ideas; (2) recognise philosophical similarities and differences between ideas in Eastern and Western traditions; (3) extract, compare and evaluate complex philosophical positions and arguments from traditions East and West; (4) demonstrate advanced research and writing skills through composing essays on comparative philosophy; and (5) critically reflect on the nature, purpose and possible limits of Western philosophy through contrasting its approach to those found in Eastern traditions.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) written assignments; (2) examination; and (3) class 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 Miri Albahari
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of any 6 points from
PHIL unit
or PPHE unit
or HUMR unit
Incompatibility
PHIL2231 Philosophy East and West
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 1 hour per week
  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.