ATS1057 · Introduction to Philosophy: The meaning of life

Overview

This unit is an introduction to moral philosophy. You will explore the meaningfulness of human life. We will examine questions such as: What makes life meaningful? Even if there is no big meaning of life, can we locate meaning in our purposeful activities in the world? Must a meaningful life be a moral life, and what does a moral life involve? Topics covered may include the value of loving relationships, of working life, and of personal integrity. You will also develop philosophical skills of analysis, argument, and criticism.

Areas of study: Philosophy

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. identify and understand some main theories in moral philosophy;
2. discuss some main approaches to conceptualising life's meaning, and analyse their underlying philosophical structure;
3. apply critical reasoning skills to philosophical and moral arguments;
4. communicate philosophical and moral arguments orally and in writing.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.