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)
Prerequisites
None. Introduction to analytic philosophy is advisable.
Course unit content
This course concerns the modes and dimensions of rational agency and it is divided into two parts. The first part (lectures 1-8) is a survey of the main topics regarding the negative, positive, bounded, constrained, rational and intentional, animal and artificial modes of agency. The second part (lectures 9-15) concerns temporal agency, and in particular how agents maintain agential authority and self-governance through time.
Full programme
CONTENTS
This course concerns the modes and dimensions of rational agency and it is divided into two parts. The first part (lectures 1-8) is a survey of the main topics regarding the negative, positive, bounded, constrained, rational and intentional, animal and artificial modes of agency. The second part (lectures 9-15) concerns temporal agency, and in particular how agents maintain agential authority and self-governance through time
AIMS
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)
PREREQUISITES
None. Introduction to analytic philosophy is advisable.
TEACHING METHODS
Lectures and seminars.
Lectures offer a critical analysis of problems and philosophical texts.
Seminars are devoted to three kinds of activities:
a) class discussion of texts and arguments of the course
b) students’ presentations consisting in a critical account of a chapter in bibliography
EXAMINATION
Students with regular attendance:
• Final essay of 3000 words (bibliography excluded) in Italian or English), on a topic chosen in consultation with the professor. Outline of the paper must be in English.
• 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 6000 words (bibliography excluded) in English), on a topic assigned by the instructor.
AGENDA 2030
Art. 16. This course contributes with a critical survey of theories of rational agency, and in particular focusing on the problem of diachronic self-government.
Bibliography
FERRERO L., The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Agency, Routledge 2022, capp. 4-5,9-10, 30-33.
BAGNOLI C. Time in Action, Routledge 2022, capp. 4-6, 8-9
Teaching methods
Lectures and seminars.
Lectures offer a critical analysis of problems and philosophical texts.
Seminars are devoted to three kinds of activities:
a) class discussion of texts and arguments of the course
b) students’ presentations consisting in a critical account of a chapter in bibliography
Assessment methods and criteria
Students with regular attendance:
• Final essay of 3000 words (bibliography excluded) in Italian or English), on a topic chosen in consultation with the professor. Outline of the paper must be in English.
• 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 6000 words (bibliography excluded) in English), on a topic assigned by the instructor.
Other information
Classes will be held at the DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SCIENCES, Palazzo Baroni,
Viale Timavo 93 Reggio Emilia 42121
