Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 101918

Coordinator Mark G. E. Kelly Opens in new window

Description This unit is an introduction to Western philosophical inquiry: it looks at fundamental questions we have about the way we think of the world around us, and the way we act. It presupposes no prior knowledge of philosophy. We will examine philosophical issues by looking at classic statements from the philosophical tradition. The unit will also help students to develop their skills in writing clear arguments. After completion of the unit students will have a critical understanding of some of the fundamental ideas that shape our thinking and our world.

School Humanities & Comm Arts

Discipline Philosophy

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. Discern the different major types of philosophical inquiry
2. Identify major philosophical questions and problems establishing the Western tradition, and the most important philosophers responsible
3. Exercise sound philosophical reasoning to an undergraduate standard
4. Analyse opposing philosophical positions to an undergraduate standard
5. Compose sound philosophical arguments to an undergraduate standard

Subject Content

. Introduction to the different types of philosophical inquiry
. Introduction to some of the major problems and questions guiding philosophers and establishing the Western Philosophical tradition in ancient and early modern times
. Basic components of philosophical reasoning
. Basic definitions of key philosophical terms, problems of divergent understandings and interpretive differences
. The nature of philosophical argument and dialogue between philosophers of differing philosophical views