Learning objectives
This course offers in-depth knowledge of some crucial problems in theoretical philosophy, such as identity and the metaphysics of agency. It aims to provide adequate analityc, logic and argumentative skills. In particular, it aims to train to critically assess theories and models of rationality. Seminars are devoted to train students to build valid arguments and assess their logical tenability. (Descriptor I)
To this purpose, students are strongly encouraged to participate to class discussion with a presentation about a critical review of a chapter in bibliography, and a final essay with a critical and argumentative account of the philosophical problem chosen. (Descriptor II)
To further develop argumentative and communication skills, there will be a workshop in philosophical writing. (Descriptor IV).
Course unit content
Module 2 Integrity and rational norms
This module (in Italian), concers the role of norms of rationality for the identity and integrity of rational and social animals such as humans are. It addresses the problem of instrumental and non-instrumental rationality, their status and authority. In particular, the module focuses on three approaches to this question: the Kantian constructivist approach defended by Korsgaard, the neo-Aristotelian approach proposed by Philippa Foot, and Robert Nozick’s account of the nature of rationality.
Bibliography
Module 2 Integrity and Rational Norms
Bibliography
1. Carla Bagnoli, “Il ruolo epistemico delle norme costitutive”, in Bagnoli (a cura di), Che fare? Nuove prospettive filosofiche sull’azione, Carocci, Roma, 2013, cap. 3.
2. Christine M. Korsgaard, “Realismo e costruttivismo nel XX secolo”, in Carla Bagnoli (a cura di), Che fare? Nuove prospettive filosofiche sull’azione, Carocci, Roma, 2013, cap. 1.
3. Christine M. Korsgaard, The Constitution of Agency, Oxford University Press, 2009, “The Normativity of Instrumental Reason”, pp. 27-67, “Acting for a Reason”, pp. 207-229.
4. Robert Nozick, The Nature of Rationality, Princeton University Press, 1993, trad. it. La natura della razionalità, Feltrinelli, Milano, 1993 “La funzione dei principi” pp. 21-67, pp. “Ragioni evolutive”, pp. 150-179, “La razionalità strumentale e i suoi limiti”, pp. 182-240.
5. Philippa Foot, Natural Goodness, trad. it. La natura del bene, Il Mulino, Bologna, 2001: “Norme naturali”, pp. 37-50; “Razionalità pratica”, pp. 67-81.
Teaching methods
Lectures and seminars.
Lectures offer a critical analysis of problems and philosophical texts.
Seminars include three kinds of activities:
a) in class discussions of some specific arguments of course,
b) presentations of a chapter in bibliography, and
c) participation in a workshop in philosophical communication and writing.
Assessment methods and criteria
Course 6 credits (1 module)
Students with regular attendance:
• Final essay of 3000 words (bibliography excluded) in Italian or English), on a topic chosen in consultation with the professor
• Oral examination on the main topics of the course and defense of the final essay.
For students not attending classes:
• Oral examination on the full bibliography of the course.
• Final essay of 3000 words (bibliography excluded) in Italian or English), on a topic assigned by the instructor.
International Students
International Students have the opportunity to be examined in English. (All other requirements above apply)
Criteria of Evaluation
Threshold for 18: sufficient comprehension of the topics, sufficient expository clarity and sufficient competence in the use of the philosophical vocabulary.
Threshold for 24: discrete comprehension of the topics, discrete expository clarity and discrete competence in the use of the philosophical vocabulary.
Threshold for 27: good comprehension of the topics, good expository clarity and good competence in the use of the philosophical vocabulary.
Threshold for 30: excellent comprehension of the topics, excellent expository clarity and excellent competence in the use of the philosophical vocabulary.
Threshold for 30 cum laude: as for 30, plus elements of originality (e.g. critical assessment of the course topics or new personal contribution to them) and/or particularly in-depth analysis of the course topics.
