PHIL 3006 Books that Changed how we Think

This is an archived copy of the 2022-2023 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 102570

Coordinator Dimitris Vardoulakis Opens in new window

Description This subject involves an in-depth study of a philosophical text that has reshaped our understanding about the world we live in. The close reading and discussion will develop the students' capacity to read and think deeply about particular problems. Students will follow the text step by step, gaining insights as to why it has had such a lasting influence.

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 3 subject

Equivalent Subjects PHIL 3014 - Philosophy in Focus PHIL 3007 - Case Studies in Philosophy Text

Restrictions

Successful completion of 60 credit points of study in currently enrolled program.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Identify the major philosophical arguments in the text studied
  2. Analyse the philosophical reasoning employed
  3. Outline the importance of the philosopher and text to philosophical tradition
  4. Evaluate the major achievements and any significant problems generated from the philosopher's contributions
  5. Identify relevant cultural and social contexts of the philosopher and texts
  6. Compose sound philosophical argument

Subject Content

1. Close reading of a major philosophical text by a single philosopher
2. Study of the relevance of that text to the relevant philosophical tradition in which it is located
3. Critical study of achievements and/or problems of the philosophical position
4. Situating the text in relevant cultural and social contexts

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Type Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Log/Workbook 1500 words (5 paragraphs x 300 words) 40 N Individual
Essay 2500 words 50 N Individual
Presentation 1 response of up to 5 minutes 10 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

  • Spinoza, Baruch, Theological-Political Treatise, trans. Samuel Shirley (Indianapolis: Hackett, 2001). ISBN: 978-0-87220-607-6

Teaching Periods

Spring (2022)

Bankstown

Day

Subject Contact Dimitris Vardoulakis Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

Parramatta - Victoria Rd

Day

Subject Contact Dimitris Vardoulakis Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

Spring (2023)

Bankstown City

On-site

Subject Contact Dimitris Vardoulakis Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

Parramatta - Victoria Rd

On-site

Subject Contact Dimitris Vardoulakis Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window