Philosophy of Mind I

Course

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/W_BA_PHMI

Course Objective

After completing this course, you are able to: 1. identify and explain philosophical positions and concepts concerning the mind-body problem, distinguishing between substance and property dualism, behaviorism, identity theory, functionalism, computationalism, eliminativism, and 4E approaches; 2. apply philosophical positions and concepts to case studies involving consciousness, social cognition, and free will; 3. dissect philosophical arguments to examine their logical structure and underlying assumptions; 4. reflect on the implications of philosophical positions within scientific and social contexts

Course Content

The relationship between the mind and the body has puzzled philosophers for centuries, giving rise to the notorious ‘mind-body problem’. In this introductory course, students will gain insight into the diverse range of philosophical positions proposed to grapple with this enigma, including substance and property dualism, behaviorism, identity theory, functionalism, computationalism, and eliminativism. We will examine the strengths, weaknesses, and implications of each perspective, shedding light on the complexity inherent in understanding the nature of the mind and its relation to the physical world. In addition to traditional approaches, this course will also delve into 4E approaches, which emphasize the embodied, embedded, enacted, and extended nature of cognition. Finally, students will apply these theories to specific case studies, reflecting on the distinctive challenges they present. What is consciousness and how could we explain it in scientific terms? How do we manage to understand other humans and which epistemic strategies do we rely on? Do we possess a free will, or are our actions always predetermined?

Teaching Methods

Lectures and workgroup meetings

Method of Assessment

a) Text-based assignments (pass/fail) (formative assessment) b) Exam with open questions (50%) (Objectives 1-3) c) Written Assignment (50%) (Objectives 3-4)

Literature

Mendik, P. (2014) This Is Philosophy of Mind: An Introduction. Wiley-Blackwell. (full e-book is accessible via the VU library) Further literature is made accessible to all students via Canvas. Students are expected to read the mandatory literature before the lectures.

Target Audience

Philosophy Bachelor (2nd year)

Additional Information

See the course guide on Canvas for more course information
Academic year1/09/2431/08/25
Course level6.00 EC

Language of Tuition

  • English

Study type

  • Bachelor