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.

Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Semester 2 2025-26

Module aims

To explore some ongoing debates around topics in consciousness and representation and develop a detailed understanding of these debates. To develop the following skills: working your way to an understanding of challenging philosophical material in an autonomous way; evaluating ideas and arguments methodically and in detail; discuss module material with others, working together to understand and critically evaluate ideas and arguments; develop your own view on one of the topics of discussion and develop a reasoned case for that view; independent research skills; make connections amongst a range of interrelated debates.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to: understand some topics in consciousness and representation, explain those in clear and precise terms, showing critical awareness and an ability to synthesise information and ideas for a variety of sources; develop and articulate detailed arguments for and against various theories relating to topics in consciousness and representation; make a measured judgment about which are the most plausible theories in some topics in consciousness and representation, based upon careful consideration of the arguments, and make a sustained and detailed case for that judgment; be able to read and critically engage with contemporary work on topics in consciousness and representation in an autonomous way; have further developed their skills in philosophical discussion and writing; and be able to prepare an extended essay that goes beyond the core framework that is providing in seminar readings and discussions, and which shows independence and critical reflection in the development of arguments.

Module content

Indicative topics include

(a) The nature of representation;

(b) Theories of representational properties;

(c) The connection between representation and consciousness;

(d) The difference between perception and cognition;

(e) The content of perception;

(f) The connection between consciousness and self-consciousness.

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100.0

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100.0

Module feedback

All formative and summative feedback will be returned in accordance with University and Departmental policy.

Indicative reading

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