PPR244 Western Philsophy and Religious Thought

Tutor: Gavin Hyman
Terms: Michaelmas and Lent

Course Description

This course aims to encourage students to think philosophically about religious issues. Using the work of both classical and contemporary philosophers and religious thinkers, it addresses some of the central philosophical questions raised by religious belief. In addition, students will be encouraged to think historically and contextually, in order to understand the ways in which understandings of the role of philosophy in relation to religion in the west has changed over time. The course introduces students to the work of some of the most important philosophers from Plato to Wittgenstein and the implications of their thought for religion. It will also address themes and issues which may vary from year to year but will be drawn from the following: the nature of theism, immortality, the problem of evil, religious experience and the implications of postmodern thought for religious belief.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a thorough grounding in both historical and contemporary debates in philosophy and religious thought.
• Use developed critical and philosophical skills in order to address some of these questions for themselves.
• Think historically and contextually, showing an awareness of the implications of changing contexts for philosophy and religious belief.
• Begin to reflect systematically and argue coherently about the fundamental philosophical issues raised by religious belief.

Assessment

40% coursework and 60% exam.
Coursework: 2 essays of 2500 words each. Exam: 3 hours.

Teaching Method

Lecture (2 hours) weekly, and seminar (1 hour) fortnightly.

Introductory Reading

B. Davies An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion

P. Sherry (ed.) Philosophers on Religion

J.J.C. Smart & J. Haldane Atheism and Theism

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