Ways into philosophy: key themes

This introduction to Western philosophy explores five key themes: truth, knowledge, ultimate reality, the mind/body problem, and personal identity.

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Key course information

Dates
19/09/11 - 05/12/11

Day(s)
Mon

Duration
12 weeks

Time
19:40 - 21:40

Fees
Full fee: £125
Senior fee: £125
Concession: £36

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HP004

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This course introduces and explores a range of core philosophical problems. It concentrates on problems rather than philosophers, but students will also be introduced to some of the central figures in the history of philosophy.

What topics will we cover?

A range of topics will be covered, including the nature of knowledge, the mind-body problem, the meaning of words, free will, and justice.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

explain a range of core philosophical problems
explain some basic solutions to these problems.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No previous study of philosophy is required. An enthusiasm for learning as well as on open and critical mind will enhance your enjoyment and benefit from this course. On joining this course you should be able to read and comment upon extracts from a philosophical text.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course is based on Thomas Nagel's What Does It All Mean? A Very Short Introduction to Philosophy (Oxford University Press). Each class will focus on one chapter, and will consist of short lecture-style presentations, pair, group and class discussion. There will also be opportunity to participate in online forums to explore topics further.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Thomas Nagel's What Does It All Mean? A Very Short Introduction to Philosophy (Oxford University Press).

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. Student learning will be assessed mainly through discussion. Exercises in class will be monitored by the tutor to ensure comprehension and progress. There will be informal opportunities for you to discuss your progress.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Ways into Philosophy: Great Thinkers; Ways into Philosophy: Philosophy in the Twentieth Century.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Select another date / day / time

Dates	Day(s)	Time	Duration	Fees	Snr	Conc	Code	Availability
19/09/11 to 05/12/11	Mon	19:40 - 21:40	12 weeks	£125	£125	£36	HP004	Finished	» Select
20/09/11 to 06/12/11	Tue	10:00 - 12:00	12 weeks	£120	£68	N/A	HP005	Finished	» Select