SE4104: Four Great Works in Philosophy
| School | Philosophy |
| Department Code | ENCAP |
| Module Code | SE4104 |
| External Subject Code | 100337 |
| Number of Credits | 20 |
| Level | L4 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Richard Gray |
| Semester | Double Semester |
| Academic Year | 2015/6 |
Outline Description of Module
Through careful study of four great texts, we will isolate and discuss the argument structures and philosophical assumptions that are developed in four great texts from different periods in the history of philosophy. Students will develop their skills of analysing texts, reconstructing arguments, and developing their own critiques of those arguments. No prior knowledge of philosophy is required. Students will find any existing knowledge significantly broadened, deepened, and challenged by our emphasis on reading the contributions to debates rather than explanations of those debates.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a range of debates in the history philosophy;
- analyse great historical texts and to isolate, formulate, and critique the arguments they develop;
- communicate analyses, critiques, and arguments orally and in writing.
How the module will be delivered
Twenty lectures (one per week) and eight seminars (four per semester). Four coursework essays are required of not more than 1,500 words each.
Skills that will be practised and developed
- An understanding of significant philosophical theories and arguments through the detailed study of four classic texts of philosophy.
- Analytical and argumentative skills through isolating key arguments in classic philosophical texts.
- The intellectual skills of reading, analysing, critiquing, discussing, and writing, which are central to all Arts and Humanities degree programmes, to most graduate employment, and to getting the best out of life in general.
How the module will be assessed
Four essays are required of no more than 1,500 words each. The essays will be weighted at 25% each.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Assessment | 25 | Summative Coursework 1 | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 25 | Summative Coursework 2 | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 25 | Summative Coursework 3 | N/A |
| Written Assessment | 25 | Summative Coursework 4 | N/A |
Syllabus content
The four great texts are:
1. Plato, Euthypheo, The Apology, Crito,and Phaedo.
2. Descartes, R. Meditations on First Philosophy.
3. Hume, D. Enquiries.
4. Kripke, S. (1980) Naming and Necessity.
Essential Reading and Resource List
1. Plato, Euthypheo, The Apology, Crito,and Phaedo.
2. Descartes, R. Meditations on First Philosophy.
3. Hume, D. Enquiries.
4. Kripke, S. (1980) Naming and Necessity.
Background Reading and Resource List
1. Plato, Euthypheo, The Apology, Crito,and Phaedo.
2. Descartes, R. Meditations on First Philosophy.
3. Hume, D. Enquiries.
4. Kripke, S. (1980) Naming and Necessity.