Epistemology (V7061)

15 credits, Level 5

Autumn teaching

Epistemology is the study of knowledge and how we acquire it.

In this module, you'll address questions including:

• what is knowledge, belief and justification and how are they related?
• how do we aquire knowledge?
• what should we think of sceptical challenge?
• who should we trust in cases of disagreement?
• what should we believe when experts disagree?
• how can we justify taking one side a debate rather than another?

The module will explore how racial bias affects beliefs and how democracy relates to justifying those beliefs, focusing on the practical, moral, and political aspects of knowledge. An emphasis will be placed on critical examination of arguments for and against competing epistemological views. You'll have the opportunity to examine and develop your own positions on these issues.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.