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Topics in Metaphysics (PHIL40005)

HonoursPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 2
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This subject explores selected topics in contemporary metaphysics, with specific themes varying from year to year. Its primary aim is to equip students with a deep understanding of modern metaphysics. Topics to be covered in the course include but are not limited to: time, causation, persistence, modality, emergence, grounding, fundamentality, existence, properties and persistence. The subject also offers opportunities to examine how metaphysics intersect with other areas, such as science, logic, language and mind. 

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to: 

  • Discuss selected issues in contemporary metaphysics
  • Manifest philosophical skill in arguing in an alert and well informed way for conclusions related to these issues
  • Display acquaintance with some important past contributions to the discussion of those issues
  • Indicate an awareness of how the subject matter is related to broader concerns in contemporary philosophy
  • Locate issues concerning metaphysics
  • Evaluate sophisticated arguments offered in the literature.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should be able to: 

  • Think critically
  • Analyse and evaluate concepts, theories, and arguments
  • Develop and present arguments for or against a position
  • Consider multiple viewpoints and arguments for those viewpoints
  • Articulate ideas, concepts, and interpretations with clarity and coherence
  • Engage in critical reflection, synthesis, and evaluation of research-based and scholarly literature.

 

Last updated: 11 July 2025