ObjectivesTo familiarise students with the contemporary theories of relations between mind and body, in particular functionalist models of the mind exploiting analogies between mental functioning and the functioning of computers. To subject this model to critique from a variety of anti-reductionist perspectives. To contrast such approaches with alternatives, Wittgensteinian, phenomenological, psychoanalytic and post-structuralist accounts of mentality and embodiment. Consequently to bring Philosophy of Mind into relation with Philosophy of the Body and to bring into conversation analytic and continental approaches. To allow students to explore in depth an aspect of philosophy of mind or body of their own choice. To prepare students for further research by training in research methods.
Academic titleMA In Philosophy of Mind and Body
Course descriptionTeaching Methods
Core course: 70 credits. 2-hour weekly term-time sessions over two semesters.
Dissertation: 90 credits. Individual supervisors are provided for dissertations. This supervision takes place in semester two and over the summer. For part-time students such supervision is normally provided in the second year of the course.
Research training: 20 credits. Students must register for the Philosophical Research Methods module with the Graduate School. Seminars for this will take place in semester one.
Students are also strongly encouraged to attend the departmental research seminars, which take place at regular intervals on Tuesdays at 4.30.
Assessment
4 assessed essays (around 3,000 words),
a dissertation of between 10.000 and 20,000 words
research methods assignment of 2000 words
Full time students Essays
Part time students Essays
The Pass mark for this MA is 50%. Distinction marks start at 70%.
For ascertaining pass or distinction the 4 assessed essays count for 40% and the dissertation for 60%
Teaching Staff
The course co-ordinator is Kathleen Lennon. Other teaching staff involved are Soren Overgaard, Steve Burwood, Paul Gilbert, John McMillan and Tom Hall.