Research in Practical Philosophy

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 7
• Convenor: Professor Jennifer Hornsby
• Assessment: an essay of up to 5000 words (100%)

The module is aimed at providing a philosophical grounding and research skills in some core areas of philosophy. It focuses on a range of set readings (contemporary or historical) within one or more of: philosophy of mind; political philosophy; or the philosophy of art and aesthetics.

The module is taught by fortnightly seminars and is led by an expert in the relevant field, who will also offer feed back on drafts of written work. You will immerse yourself in standard scholarship published in the relevant research area, and will produce a 5000-word essay addressing one of the topics covered in the seminar.

By the end of this module you will be able to:

• discuss various interpretations of philosophical texts by drawing on textual analysis and arguments
• apply relevant philosophical concepts and distinctions
• argue coherently and at length on philosophical topics
• assess the strengths and weaknesses of a philosopher's views
• express your thoughts clearly
• construct, analyse and criticise arguments
• summarise ideas for presentation in written form
• use library and internet resources for self-directed research
• communicate complex ideas and opinions fairly and clearly
• engage in constructive cooperative discussion on philosophical issues.