Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - PHIL 455W D100

Contemporary Issues in Epistemology and Metaphysics (4)

Causation and Modality

Class Number: 4771

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Two 300 division PHIL courses.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

May be repeated for credit. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topics: Causation and Modality

[Note: this course is to be taught concurrently with PHIL 803.]

This course will examine the issues of how causation and modality interact, especially in the context of explanation. We will cover major contemporary accounts of causation, focusing on how each account relies on or constrains modality. We will also compare theories of modality and various kinds of modal necessity. Then, the course will move to detailed comparisons of these views and how each can figure in different kinds of causal and noncausal explanation.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course may be applied towards the Writing Requirement (and the upper division Writing Requirement for Philosophy majors).

Grading

  • Precis and discussion questions 25%
  • Paper outline 10%
  • Final paper 65%

REQUIREMENTS:

Students are expected to attend class every week.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

 All readings will be available through Canvas.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philmgr@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS