Introductory description

This module offers students the opportunity to write a longer essay, typically during the course of one term, on a specialist philosophical topic of their choice. Registration for the module is dependent on the availability of a suitable supervisor. Agreement of supervision arrangements for the independent project follows the same procedures as those used for agreement of supervision arrangements for dissertations. Students must find a supervisor and agree a topic with him or her during the summer term of their penultimate year, which will be followed by three supervision sessions in the final year, which guide the student’s independent work on the essay.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Students may choose their own subject.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Students should be able to understand and discuss at some depth a particular topic, problem or theory in philosophy.
• Students should be able to research the relevant literature, draw up a plan of work, and present their arguments in a clear way.
• Students should be able to isolate the important claims within readings, understand the structure of arguments, test views for strengths and weaknesses, make pertinent use of examples, and compare the substance of views consistently.
• Students should be able to pursue and organize philosophical research using a range of sources (print and electronic media), documenting research carefully, and showing the ability to engage independently in philosophical debate.

Research element

Students will be required to complete their own research on a subject of their choice.

Subject specific skills

Students should be able to pursue and organize philosophical research using a range of sources (print and electronic media), documenting research carefully, and showing the ability to engage independently in philosophical debate.

Transferable skills

Independent research and writing