Comparative Metaphysics

This module examines approaches to a number of metaphysical questions from both Global North and Global South traditions.

Students will critically approach metaphysical arguments in a comparative way, emphasising the permeable, cross-cultural way of thinking about topics such as personhood, the nature of gender, and the relationship between normativity and nature.

Objectives and learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course a student will be able to:

• Identify basic methods and problems of contemporary metaphysics
• Explain how metaphysical problems are related to other philosophical issues in the philosophy of language, social theory, and philosophy of mind
• Explain core arguments in metaphysics across a range of philosophical traditions

Scope and syllabus

Week 1: Introduction, motivation, and overview of the module

Week 2: Personhood – Akan Intersubjectivity

Week 3: Personhood – German Idealist Intersubjectivity

Week 4: Personhood – Post-Analytic Perspectives 

Week 5: Metaphysics of Gender – He-Yin Zhen

Week 6: Reading Week

Week 7: Metaphysics of Gender – Performativity

Week 8: African Metaphysics of Gender

Week 9: The Problem of Normativity

Week 10: Decolonising Naturalism?

Week 11: Workshop

Workload

2-hours lecture and one hour tutorial per week over 22 weeks.

Method of assessment

• A short Essay or video essay, multimedia presentation (30%)
• A long Essay or video essay, multimedia presentation (70%)

Suggested reading

• Baker, L.R. 2017. ‘Naturalism and the Idea of Nature’. Philosophy 92: 333-349.
• Wiredu, K. 1992. ‘The African Concept of Personhood’, in H.E. Flack and D.
• Pellegrino, Edmund D. (eds.) African-American Perspectives on Biomedical Ethics. Washington, D.C.: Georgetown University Press.

Convenor

• Dr Paul Giladi

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules.