Aims

This course is a systematic introduction to metaphysics which also reflects the history of this discipline. Its aim is to give an overview of the questions that metaphysics raises, the most fundamental problems it faces and the most important metaphysical theories.

At the end of the course, students should be able to state

• what metaphysics is and which kind of questions it asks;
• which shifts metaphysics has undergone throughout history;
• how the major metaphysical paradigms work, what their main differences are and how they relate to each other;
• which role metaphysics plays within philosophy today

Students should also be able to discuss metaphysical approaches critically and assess them with sound reasons. They know how to analyze and reconstruct metaphysical arguments, the presuppositions that they are based on, and their significance for theories as a whole.

They should also be able to link metaphysical debates to contemporary problems and contemporary ways of thinking, not just in philosophy but in culture in general (e.g. in relation to religion, or to science).

Regarding oral skills, students are expected to be able to present a brief oral summary of a metaphysical text and to discuss metaphysical problems with their fellow course participants.

Regarding academic writing, students should be able to write short assessments of metaphysical arguments, taking into account the theoretical context in which these arguments play a role, and to write a longer philosophical paper on a metaphysical topic, using relevant primary and secondary literature, and employing the research skills they have acquired so far.

Previous knowledge

Students should have basic philosophical knowledge, including basic knowledge of logic, epistemology and of the history of philosophy, and the relevant basic research and writing skills.

Mastering academic English is mandatory. Knowledge of other languages is not required, but knowledge of Greek, Latin, German and French will allow you to read the texts in their original form.

Identical courses

This course is identical to the following courses:
W0EA6A : Metaphysics (No longer offered this academic year)

Is included in these courses of study

• Bachelor of Theology and Religious Studies (Abridged Programme) (Leuven) 120 ects.
• Bachelor of Philosophy (Abridged Programme of 63 ECTS) (Leuven) 63 ects.
• Bachelor of Theology and Religious Studies (Leuven) 180 ects.
• Bachelor of Philosophy (Leuven) 180 ects.
• Bachelor of Philosophy (Abridged Programme of 102 ECTS) (Leuven) 102 ects.
• Courses for Exchange Students Institute of Philosophy (Leuven)