Mind, knowledge, and reality
About the course
The course is included as an elective and in-depth course in the bachelor's degree program in philosophy and is a specialization within the discipline of philosophy of mind.
The first part of the course gives a broad introduction to central questions in the philosophy of mind, including: What is the nature of mental states such as sensations and beliefs? How is the mind related to the body? And how is it that some mental states such as beliefs and fears can have a content, or "be about" something?
The philosophy of mind is naturally intertwined with metaphysics and epistemology. The second part of the course, therefore, goes more deeply into selected topics relating to knowledge and the nature of reality. The focus of this part of the course varies depending on the expertise of the lecturer, but typical topics include: Do human beings have free will? Are we living in a computer simulation? What is personal identity? Can we have knowledge of a "mind-independent" reality, or is the world we have access to inevitably shaped by how we think about it and experience it?
Admission requirements
Higher Education Entrance Qualification (generell studiekompetanse) or prior learning and work experience (realkompetanse).
Application code: 9199 - Enkeltemner (ikke realfag), lavere grad (Nordic applicants).
Objectives of the course
Knowledge
The student has:
- insight into some of the central questions in the philosophy of mind.
- an overview of the main theories concerning the nature of mental states and the relationship between mind and body (e.g. dualism, the identity theory and functionalism)
- an overview of influential arguments within the philosophy of mind.
- an in-depth knowledge and insight into one or more selected topics from metaphysics and epistemology.
Skills
The student can:
- explain and compare different theories, concepts, problems and methods from the philosophy of mind.
- apply theories and concepts to relevant discussions.
- assess the strengths and weaknesses of the theories.
- communicate central problems within the field in an easy-to-understand manner.
Competence
The student is able to:
- critically assess and defend philosophical argumentation.
- speak up and participate in academic discussions.
- reflect on and critically assess their own philosophical positions.
Prerequisites
Anbefalte forkunnskaper
FIL-0700 Examen Philosophicum, FIL-1027 Logic and Philosophy of Language, FIL-1030 History of Philosophy I, FIL-1031 History of Philosophy II
Credit reduction
If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:
- FIL-1026 Metaphysics and the Philosophy of Mind 10 ects
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
Lectures: English
Exam: English, Norwegian, or another Scandinavian language
Schedule
The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.
It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.
Information to incoming exchange students
This course is open for exchange students. There are no academic prerequisites to add this module in your Learning Agreement
Do you have questions about this module? Please check the following website to contact the course coordinator for exchange students at the faculty: https://en.uit.no/education/art?p_document_id=510412
Examination
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Written assignment | Approved – not approved |
| Supervision | Approved – not approved |
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