Theory and Method in Philosophy

A study of philosophical texts from different philosophical traditions, eras, and schools in a comparative perspective.

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome (defined as knowledge and skills):

Knowledge:

The candidate has attained

• Knowledge of a variety of perspectives/methods/theory that define the realm of philosophy and philosophical activity.
• Knowledge and understanding of the interrelationship of these various perspectives etc.

Skills:

The candidate has

• Ability to orally present philosophical texts of more general nature in relation to their own interests.
• Ability to create a clear project description and present this orally for discussion.

Seminars, self-study and oral presentation. Theory and Method is taken over the first two semesters (with normal progression), with assessment in the second semester. The teaching for Theory and Method consists of a study of a broad range of philosophical traditions, perspectives and methods through different texts. In addition there will be focus on how one writes an academic text in philosophy.

In order to sit the exam the student must attend the seminars (80% participation is required all seminars included), present a curriculum text each semester, present a draft of the project description in the second semester and finally submit an approved reading list to the Department the semester the exam is taken.

The masters seminar constitutes both the teaching for Theory and Method, and more generally a forum for all the department's masters students to present and receive feedback on work in progress.