Topics in Consciousness & Representation - PHI00087M

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Module summary

Topics in Consciousness and Representation are key both for the successful understanding of philosophical theories of mind and because they enable us to understand the significance of advances in areas such as cognitive science and AI. Many theories of consciousness draw upon theories of representation and vice versa. So there are also natural connections between these two topics. They also have relevance to our understanding of concepts central to much value theory, such as pleasure and pain, and, indeed, our reasoning in this area.

In this module, the students take turns to select topics in the philosophical literature on Consciousness and Representation and present on those to the whole group. Thus the curriculum is co-created with the students who identify topics in the current debate which are most relevant to the students’ interests.

Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Semester 2 2024-25

Module aims

Develop the student’s detailed knowledge in the topics of Consciousness and Representation drawing upon their own particular interests in their other areas of MA study but also giving them awareness and understanding of the interests of other students.

Develop the student’s capacities to present material clearly to an advanced audience and respond effectively to questions.

Develop the student’s capacities to discuss material presented by others using constructive but critical questioning.

Module learning outcomes

1. Detailed knowledge of a topic of their choice on Consciousness and Representation, enhanced by in-depth responses to peer discussion.

2. Refined presentations skills.

3. Refined skills in defending philosophical positions in a research seminar style context.

4. Broader knowledge of a variety of other topics in Consciousness and Representation.

5. Refined skills in constructive criticism of the work of others in a research seminar style context.

Module content

Each week a member of the module gives a presentation on the topic of their choice in the area of Consciousness and Representation, with reading identified in conjunction with the module tutor and circulated to the module members beforehand.

Learning Objectives (LOs) 1 and 4 are assessed through the summative essay, with written formative feedback given on the presentation. Formative feedback will be given orally on LOs 2, 3 and 5.

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100

Module feedback

All feedback will be returned in line with current University and Departmental policy.

Indicative reading

The readings will be decided by students in advance of the seminars.