Enrolments for 2020 have closed.
Metaphysics
Undergraduate | MAQ-PHIX3058 | 2020
Previously MAQ-PHIX358
Course information for 2020 intake
View information for 2021 course intakeReflect 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 unit 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%)
- Participation (10%)
- Quizzes (15%)
- Final essay (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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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-Metaphysics (no longer available)
Others
You must complete some Level 1 and 2 studies before starting this subject. Prior study in Philosophy is recommended.
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.
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
Undergraduate
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