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Introduction to the Philosophy of Mind (Intensive Course)

8.31107

Dozenten

Dr. techn. Dr. phil. Gregor Michael Hörzer

Beschreibung

Course Description:

The course focuses mainly on questions in the philosophy of mind, particularly questions about consciousness and its relation to the brain. Every other week, we will discuss a chapter of a book (Alter & Howell 2009) that introduces to the topic accessibly via a fictitious dialogue between two students discussing various positions and arguments from the debate about consciousness and the mind-body problem. In the sessions between these discussion sessions, we will do hands-on practical exercises to improve the students’ scientific writing competence. Much of the practical work is done during the sessions, so regular attendance is crucial.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will …
1. … have mastered some central aspects of scientific writing and good scientific practice, such as engaging with the literature, quoting, bibliographies, etc.
2. … be able to address a clear-cut philosophical research question in the form of a written essay.
3. … be able to categorize and critically assess positions and arguments in some central debates in the philosophy of mind, especially on the topic of consciousness and the mind-body problem.

Prerequisites:

Prior participation in the courses “Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking” and “Philosophy for Cognitive Science” is strongly recommended.

Course Format:

· Delivery Method: in-person, no recordings or online sessions
· Type of Contact & Contact Hours: weekly seminar sessions with 3 academic hours each
· Selection Process: none planned (assuming no more than 25 students are attending)

Assessment and Grading:

· Regular homework assignments and in-class practical writing exercises every other week (required, but not graded)
· Final term paper on one of the topics discussed.
The final term paper will be written in-class during the final session.

Required Texts and Materials or further Resources:

· Alter, T. & Howell, R. J. (2009): A Dialogue on Consciousness. New York: Oxford Univ. Press. (Hardcopy available at the library)
· Further readings will be provided over the course of the semester via Stud.IP.

Important Dates:

· Registration Deadline on HisInOne/EXA: May 2, 2025
· De-Registration Deadline on HisInOne/EXA: July 25, 2025
· Exam Date on HisInOne/EXA: August 1, 2025

Will this class be offered again/regularly?

The course will likely be offered again, but not on a strictly regular basis. Other “Intensive Courses” with varying topics are typically offered every semester.

Weitere Angaben

Ort: 93/E07
Zeiten: Fr. 14:00 - 17:00 (wöchentlich)
Erster Termin: Freitag, 25.04.2025 14:00 - 17:00, Ort: 93/E07
Veranstaltungsart: Seminar (Offizielle Lehrveranstaltungen)