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Metaphysics
Undergraduate | MAQ-PHIX3058 | 2024
Previously MAQ-PHIX358
Reflect on philosophical topics of free will, time and personal identity. Unpack what defines art and how it might differ from artefact. Consider the relationship between virtual and physical entities. Question the fundamental nature of reality.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 18 weeks
HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Metaphysics
About this subject
On successful completion of this subject, you will be able to:
- apply understanding developed through course material, readings and research to explain key problems in Metaphysics and responses to them.
apply advanced skills in critical analysis and reflection to respond to the problems and theories introduced in the unit.
clearly communicate your own perspective on the views and arguments presented in the unit.
contribute to the learning of the group by engaging constructively in philosophical discussion and activities.
- Introduction
- Causation
- Free will and determinism
- Laws of Nature
- Personal Identity
- Mental States
- The Metaphysics of God
- Time
- Time Travel
- The Metaphysics of Art
- The Metaphysics of Artefacts
- The Metaphysics of Virtual Reality
This subject examines some central themes in traditional and contemporary metaphysics. We will begin by examining traditional topics such as causation, free will, laws of nature, personal identity, mental states, and time. Some of the questions we will look at are: Do we have free will or are our actions determined by the laws of nature? How does the mind relate to the brain? Will my personal identity persist over time? What is the nature of time? Is time travel possible? We will also examine a range of metaphysical topics in other areas such as philosophy of art, philosophy of technology, and philosophy of religion.
- Essay Plan (5%)
- First essay (30%)
- Online discussion (10%)
- Quizzes (15%)
- Final essay (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
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- QS Ranking 2024:
- 10
- Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:
- 10
Entry requirements
Equivalent subjects
You should not enrol in this subject if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:
MAQ-PHIX358 (Not currently available)
Others
Pre-requisite
130cp at 1000 level or above
NCCW (pre-2020 units) PHL358, PHIL358, PHIX358
NCCW (2020 and onwards)
PHIL3058 Metaphysics
Additional requirements
- Other requirements -
Students who have an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion under Macquarie University's Academic Progression Policy are not permitted to enrol in OUA units offered by Macquarie University. Students with an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion who have enrolled in units through OUA will be withdrawn.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
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