Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - PHIL 344 D100

Topics in the Philosophy of Language (3)

Thought and Communication

Class Number: 7166

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 15, 2024: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Either one of: PHIL 201 or 203; or both of PHIL 100, 100W, or 300, and COGS 200.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the major philosophic theories of language. Topics to be considered include the relationship between language and mind, language and the world, language and society. Students may repeat this course for further credit under a different topic.

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topics: 

This course will explore a series of important questions arising from philosophical reflection on language. How does linguistic communication work? What is the relation between language and self-conscious thought? Is language acquired or innate? Which, if any, aspects of language are universal? In what sense is language a social object, and in which sense a product of individual minds? Are there really such things as languages, as opposed to merely patterns of similarity in people’s verbal behaviour?

While our guiding interests will be firmly philosophical and most of our readings will be culled from classic and contemporary philosophy, we will also be reading recent work in linguistics, psychology, and cognitive science.

Grading

  • Participation (in-class and / or Canvas) 15%
  • Five precis on readings of your choice (grade will reflect best four out of the five) 25%
  • Short paper (5-6 pp., or about 1500-1800 words) 25%
  • Research paper (8-10 pp., or about 2400-3000 words) 35%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All materials will be supplied by the instructor.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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 philcomm@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.