Overview

The BA (Hons) Philosophy at the University of Exeter explores fundamental questions about knowledge, reality, morality, the mind and human existence. The course develops rigorous reasoning and analytical skills while introducing students to major philosophical traditions, contemporary debates and different approaches to interpreting philosophical problems.

What You'll Learn

• Epistemology and questions concerning knowledge, evidence and belief.

• Metaphysics and philosophical approaches to reality, existence and the nature of the self.

• Moral philosophy and theories used to examine ethical choices and responsibilities.

• Philosophy of mind, including debates concerning consciousness and the relationship between mind and body.

• Philosophy of language and approaches to meaning, reference and communication.

• Logic, argumentation and methods for assessing the strength of philosophical reasoning.

• Philosophical analysis through the study of influential texts and different intellectual traditions.

• Specialist areas such as philosophy of science, law, aesthetics, existentialism and Asian philosophy.

• Independent philosophical research and the development of structured academic arguments. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to analyse complex philosophical questions using appropriate concepts, theories and methods. They will understand different approaches to knowledge, reality, morality, language and the mind, and be able to compare competing philosophical positions critically. Students will develop the ability to identify, construct and evaluate arguments, assess evidence and recognise weaknesses in reasoning. They will also be able to undertake independent philosophical research, interpret challenging texts and present clear, logically supported conclusions. The course develops an analytical and open-minded approach to questioning assumptions while enabling students to engage confidently with both traditional and contemporary philosophical problems.