Philosophy has always been concerned with raising and exploring fundamental questions about the nature of humanity and society, questions that still preoccupy us today and inform many of the other disciplines studied at university. This first year course aims to introduce students to philosophical reflection on questions to do with the  meaning and potential in human life, how we imagine ourselves to be capable of living and how we understand ourselves as connected with one another in societies. It comprises two 6 week segments, in most cases taught sequentially by two faculty members. Segment topics will be devised by lecturers to provide an interesting introduction to these areas of philosophy and a coherent study programme: examples of topics might include the following; ‘Mind, World and Dreams - Descartes' Meditations; ‘Philosophers and Other Animals'; ‘Utopias'; ‘Introduction to Continental Philosophy'; ‘Philosophy and the Environment'.

The course aims to (1) equip students with knowledge of some core areas of philosophy (2) build student skills in argumentation, the critical evaluation of texts, basic research and essay writing etc, as appropriate for a first year course (3) provide for the development of skills in discussion and debate. 

For the first segment of the course: 1 x 2000 word essay (45%) (Learning Outcomes 1 and 2); for the second segment: 1 x 500 word short essay (15%); 1 x 1,500 word essay (30%) or exam (Learning Outcomes 1 and 2); tutorial participation: 10% (Learning Outcome 3)

Weekly Seminars or Lectures plus tutorials - the course aims to encourage participation at a supportive and introductory level of discussion, with webCT recording, notes etc.as back-up.

Either PHIL 1006 'Mind, World and Dreams' or PHIL1004, 'Fundamental ideas in Philosophy' are recommended.