METAPHYSICS

 

The aim of this course is to introduce students to some of the core topics of contemporary metaphysics.  We will look at arguments having to do with the nature of ordinary objects, the relationships between parts and wholes, time and the paradoxes of time travel, whether abstract objects exist, and the nature of metaphysical explanation.  The course will approach these topics from the perspective of both western and eastern philosophical traditions. 
 

Course Text:

 

A course reader will be made available.

 

Assessment:

 

One essay and one examination.

 

Course Schedule:

 

Week 1: What is metaphysics?

 

Week 2: Mereology 

 

Week 3: Identity

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Week 4: Emptiness

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Week 5: Endurantism

 

Week 6: Perdurantism

 

Week 7: Paradoxes of time travel

 

Week 8: Modality

 

Week 9: Abstract objects

 

Week 10: Realism and anti-realism

 

Week 11: Metaphysical dependence and grounding

 

Week 12: Metaphysical explanation

 

 

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