Philosophy

This courses offers a survey of the history, doctrines and practices of Buddhism, with particular focus on Indian, Chinese and Tibetan Buddhism. The course seeks to gain an understanding of what Buddhists believe and practice; how Buddhism has changed and adapted itself to different eras and cultural contexts, as well as the characteristics of the various schools of Buddhism and the differences among them. 

This course introduces students to the epistemological, metaphysical, and ethical issues that arise when science is considered from a philosophical perspective. Through the study of philosophers such as Popper, Kuhn, and Feyerabend, among others, the questions discussed include: Do scientists employ a special method that sets them apart from non-scientists and give their claims greater authority? Do electrons, genes, and other entities that we can't see or touch really exist? Are scientists inevitably influenced by political and moral agendas or can pure science be value-free? DP requirements: Regular attendance at lectures and tutorials; completion of all tests, submission of all essays and assignments by due dates, and an average mark of at least 35% for the coursework. Assessment: Coursework counts 40%; November examination 3 hours 60%. Course entry requirements: At least second-year status.

This course provides a critical examination of various moral problems raised when considering environmental issues. It explores such questions as the moral status of animals, future generations, and the environment as a whole, as well as the moral aspects of famine relief, population control, and resource use.

The course focuses on the philosophy of contemporary language. This course includes an introduction to contemporary philosophy of language and focuses on truth and relativism and logical reasoning and rational argumentation on the topic of post-truth. The course includes lectures, quizzes on the e-learning materials, and peer instruction based on the Kahoot model. Assessment is based on a final research paper on a pre-approved topic and an oral exam on class lectures, required readings, and special materials.

This course introduces students to philosophical thinking and some of the classic philosophical questions as they are exemplified in films and television series such as THE MATRIX, BLADE RUNNER, CRIMES AND MISDEMEANORS, BREAKING BAD, LOUIS CK, BLACK MIRROR, and others. The films serve as “triggers” for philosophical inquiry into topics such as morality, faith, knowledge, mind, meaning, interpretation, and the human condition accompanied by philosophical text and commentaries. The course also examines the question of the relation between film and philosophy and the possible contribution that each field could have for the other.