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General Information about Philosophy Modules

Discussion is the lifeblood of philosophy, and our ways of teaching in the Philosophy Department are intended both to inform and guide students, and provide adequate time for debate and exploration of philosophical issues. There are two principal formats for the teaching of modules in the Department.

Some modules, such as the first-year Introduction to Philosophy module (PY111) and the core second-year modules Conceptual Foundations of Modernity (PY400) and Ethics (PY408) are taught by means of a one-hour lecture which is supplemented by a one-hour back-up class, either immediately afterwards, or later in the week. Back-up classes may be taught by the lecturer, by another member of staff or, in the case of PY111, by a graduate teaching assistant. The primary aim of the lecture is to convey the essential information and explanations which students require to understand the relevant module material. The primary aim of the class is to provide an opportunity for guided discussion, in which students can explore and exchange ideas with each other, and with the teacher taking the class.

The majority of second and third year modules are taught by means of a weekly two-hour 'lecture/seminar'. In this format, the teacher generally uses the first hour to convey information and explanations, and the second for discussion. However, this format allows for a lot of flexibility, and often the division between the 'lecture' and 'seminar' aspects of the class is less rigid, and can be adapted to the needs of students.

As a general rule second year modules (modules with P4**-5-FY numbers) function as introductions to areas of philosophical enquiry, to topics, or to periods in the history of philosophy. Final year modules (modules with PY4/5**-6-FY, AU or SP numbers) tend to focus in depth on more specific ranges of issues, or on the work of particular philosophical authors, or they address the interface between philosophy and other disciplines. Final year modules also aim to give you an insight into current philosophical controversies and debates. For this reason, you will probably be expected to read more journal articles and specialist literature for them, and also to explore beyond the bounds of the set reading. Students taking final year modules are normally expected to give at least one class presentation, either on their own, or in collaboration with other students.

Please note that not all of our second and final year modules are offered every year. When making your choice of modules for the second year, please make sure you know which modules will be on offer in your second year, and which will be on offer in your final year. A brief outline of our modules can be found in the University's Module Directory.  Full module descriptions and reading lists are available from our Undergraduate Office (5B.115) at the start of each term and from the Course Materials Repository. Timetable information can be found on the notice boards outside 5B.115 at the start of the new academic year as well as from the Timetable Office's website.