Introductory description

Expression is a central human activity that reflects a deep need we have as social beings to be heard by (and to hear) others. For example, in saying aloud ‘I am thirsty’, I intend for someone else to hear that might be able to help meet my need for a drink. We make use of public language to express ourselves and commune with others, at least as best we can, but we often do not rely on words alone to do this but draw on features of voice, such as intonation, inflection, gesture that enables one to go beyond word meaning to add attitudinal, affective and emotional information. The phrase ‘shut up!’ can be used to express annoyance, a desire for silence or even surprise through difference in how one uses their voice and body. Philosophical reflections on the nature of voice and its role in expression raises a number of questions: What is the significance of the embodied voice? How does voice contribute to meaning and expression? How are voice and thought connected? What is lost if voice is ignored? What responsibilities do we have to listen to others? Can we have more than one voice? Is a collective voice possible?

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.

1. What is voice and vocal expression? Phenomenology of voice
2. Voice and body in expression
3. Ethics of voice
4. Not being able to speak
5. Not being heard
6. Political/collective voice

Learning outcomes

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

• To gain understanding of the role of voice in expression and identify ethical issues relating to voice
• To gain appreciation of the relevance of voice to topics in philosophy
• To be able to isolate the important claims within readings, understand the structure of arguments, test views for strengths and weaknesses, make good use of examples, and compare the substance of views consistently
• Develop skills in using one's voice to communicate ideas with others
• Develop skills in attending to voice and listening to others
• Reflect on the way in which we go about doing philosophy and what the best ways are of achieving those philosophical goals.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Research element

In writing the final essay, students are required to engage in research on voice and in doing so will need to bring together research from different areas in philosophy (and related disciplines).

Interdisciplinary

As part of the module, we will consider voice and vocal expression in performance and therefore make connections with literary and performance studies. The ethical and political topics on the module connect with issues in political theory.

International

The module will take a global look at this issues raised and apply to contexts around the world rather than drawing on examples from only a UK context. Issues of voice and vocal expression are relevant to everyone.

Subject specific skills

Through study on the module, students will develop skills in philosophical and aesthetic analysis of an everyday concept, i.e. voice, to reveal important features that are essential to appreciating the value of voice and related ethical issues. Students will be supported in developing skills in 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

Developing awareness of the role of one's body and voice in expression, which is important in improving one's ability to communicate effectively with others. Appreciating the ethical issues of voice is important for ensuring good practice in speaking, listening and encouraging others to be heard in society. Students will also develop skills in critical analysis and argument construction.