PHI-20022 - Module Specification
School of Social Sciences
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

Questions concerning life, death and faith were particularly prevalent in 19th century philosophy, particularly in the theories of two of the most important and intriguing philosophical figures of that time, Arthur Schopenhauer and Soren Kierkegaard. This module will enable you to study these philosophers in detail, and come to your own views about the striking claims they make about the value of life and the nature of religious faith. Informed by our reading of original texts, as well as the latest scholarship, we will reflect on such questions as:
1) Is life a good thing, or is it something to be regretted?
2) What is beyond the world of our everyday experience, and how does that impact upon our lives?
3) Should we strive to make the world better, or should we look to a life beyond this world?
4) What, if anything, can make life better?
5) What is religious faith?
6) Is religious faith a good thing to have, or is it illusory?
7) How should we philosophise about death?

The module aims:
1) To introduce students to key thinkers in 19th century philosophy, with a particular focus on debates concerning life, death and faith
2) To develop core study skills, including writing and research, as well as developing some key employability skills

Intended Learning Outcomes

Analyse and critically assess key positions on the topics of life, death and faith: 1,2
Explain some of the central debates in 19th century philosophy concerning life, death and faith: 1,2
Develop and defend views regarding philosophical questions concerning life, death and faith: 1,2
Write about philosophical issues in 19th century philosophy concerning life, death and faith with clarity and precision: 1,2
Summarise and analyse key readings from debates concerning life, death and faith: 1

Study hours

Active Learning:
15 hours attendance at lectures
5 hours attendance at seminars
45 hours guided preparation for the seminars, including reading key sources
Independent Study:
40 hours preparation for the text analysis exercises
45 hours preparation for the essay

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment