Philosophy is an ancient subject and an important one. The great philosophers have shaped the way we think about ourselves and the world around us. Philosophers ask fundamental questions, and while in everyday life, we take their ‘obvious’ answers for granted, in philosophy, we stop to think about them and to carefully analyse answers. This course provides an introduction to philosophy and to the kinds of questions it asks and answers. Students will examine and reflect upon some of the most central questions in metaphysics, philosophy of mind, epistemology, and ethics, such as: What is space? What is time? What is consciousness? Can computers think? What is knowledge? Can we be certain of anything? What makes an action right or wrong? Can we get morally lucky?
The aim of this course is for students (1) to gain basic knowledge of some of the most central ideas and core problems in philosophy, (2) to develop analytic and critical thinking skills through gaining familiarity with philosophical method, and (3) to be able to utilise basic philosophical terms and concepts.
- Teacher: Mirja Annalena Holst