Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - PHIL 201 D100

Epistemology (3)

Class Number: 4124

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 100, 100W, 120, 120W, 121, 144, 150, 151, 300, or COGS 100.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A critical overview of recent accounts of the nature and scope of human knowledge and of justified or rational belief, and of philosophical issues that these accounts are intended to address. Students who have taken PHIL 301 cannot take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an introduction to epistemology (which is often defined as the “theory of knowledge”). We will discuss epistemological issues both theoretical and practical, including:

  • What is the difference between true knowledge, and mere opinion?
  • Can we know anything for certain?
  • How is knowledge achieved in mathematics?
  • How does science work? What is the difference between science and pseudo-science?
  • Are religious experiences a source of knowledge?

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

PHIL 201 is a required course for the Philosophy Major and the Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate. 

  • Students will learn about core questions in epistemology. This will serve as a foundation for more advanced philosophy courses, at the 300- and 400-level.
  • Students will learn to think about epistemological issues as they arise in practice: in everyday life, in politics, and in other parts of philosophy.
  • Students will develop their ability to read difficult philosophical texts critically. The readings will be longer and more challenging than those assigned at the 100-level.
  • Students will develop their ability to write precisely and clearly.
  • Students will develop their ability to analyze and evaluate arguments.

Grading

  • Short Writing Assignments: 20%
  • First In-Class Writing Assignment: 20%
  • Second In-Class Writing Assignment: 20%
  • Final exam: 40%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Students are not required to purchase readings. The instructor will make readings available on Canvas.


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

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


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.