Philosophy

Philosophy of Mind

Module code: V7078
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework

This module will examine the nature of the mind, employing the procedures of analytic philosophy. We will be concerned with the nature of thought and of mental representation, addressing such questions as the following. How are mental properties and physical properties related? Are beliefs and desires the causes of actions? Could we have thoughts even if there were no world? What grounds the authority we appear to have over claims about the contents of our own minds? How are we to understand the nature of consciousness ?

Module learning outcomes

• Present a coherent and detailed understanding of key issues in the philosophy of mind.
• Analyse key arguments in important texts in the philosophy of mind.
• Analyse key concepts in the topic, such as 'mind', 'representation' and 'thought'.
• Present and defend some independent views with regard to the issues.