Philosophy of Mind and Ethics: Dilemmas and Thought Experiments

About

This module introduces key issues in contemporary analytic philosophy of mind and applied ethics. You'll explore connections between abstract philosophical principles and matters of contemporary concern.

The first week of the module will look at thought experiments. These are fictional scenarios designed to test ordinary beliefs and concepts. You'll also have the opportunity to reflect on the nature of perception. You'll compare and contrast ordinary perception (where there is no evident intermediary between perceiver and object perceived) with mediated perception. This is where devices such as mirrors, telescopes, cameras, or films are used.

The second week will look at practical ethical dilemmas. This includes a mixture of thought experiments and actual medical cases, such as organ donation, and euthanasia. You'll reflect on the abstract principles underlying moral decision-making. Throughout the module you'll learn how to present central issues as well as your own views. This module will give you greater confidence in engaging in independent discussion and argument.

Please note, the Leeds International Summer School runs for four weeks (2 - 30 July 2022). You can choose to study with us for two weeks or for the full four-week programme. Each module lasts two weeks so you study one module if you choose to attend for two weeks and two modules if you choose to attend for four weeks.

Course leader

Dr Alison Toop

Target group

Undergraduate/Bachelor students

Course aim

By the end of the module, students will
- have become acquainted with key issues in contemporary philosophy of mind and applied ethics
- be able to see connections between abstract philosophical and ethical principles and matters of
contemporary concern
- have greater confidence in engaging in independent discussion and argument
- be able to present concisely both the central issues and their own views, orally and in writing

Fee info