Overview

The BA (Hons) Philosophy at the University of York examines fundamental questions about knowledge, reality, morality, reason and human existence. The course develops the ability to analyse challenging ideas from different philosophical traditions, encouraging students to question assumptions, assess arguments and form carefully considered conclusions.

What You'll Learn

• Major areas of philosophy, including ethics, metaphysics, epistemology and political philosophy.

• Philosophical approaches to questions about knowledge, truth, reality and human understanding.

• Moral philosophy and debates concerning values, responsibility and ethical judgement.

• Political and social philosophy, including questions about justice, freedom and society.

• Historical and contemporary philosophical thinkers and their contrasting approaches to major problems.

• Logic and methods for identifying, analyzing and evaluating philosophical arguments.

• Independent research and approaches to constructing clear, evidence-based philosophical positions.

• Critical reading, analytical writing, discussion and communication of complex ideas.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to explain and critically assess significant philosophical ideas, theories and arguments. They will understand how different philosophical approaches address questions concerning knowledge, reality, morality and political life, while recognizing the assumptions and reasoning underlying competing positions. Students will develop the ability to analyse complex texts, identify weaknesses and strengths in arguments, and construct coherent responses supported by appropriate reasoning. They will also be able to conduct independent philosophical research, engage thoughtfully with alternative viewpoints and communicate sophisticated ideas clearly in written and spoken forms. The course encourages intellectual independence and a rigorous approach to questioning, reasoning and evaluating claims.