Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Themes from Wittgenstein
Code PHIL340
Coordinator Professor RM Gaskin
Philosophy
Richard.Gaskin@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2021-22 Level 6 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To study the later Wittgenstein. Topics will include: background in the Tractatus; the limits of language and the nature of ethical and religious discourse; rule following and the private; the limits of language and the nature of ethical and religious discourse; rule following and the private language argument; the nature and prospects of philosophy; epistemology and certainty.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students will be able to explain how the Tractatus influenced Wittgenstein's later philosophy.

(LO2) Students will be able to explain and assess both the Augustinian picture of language and Wittgenstein's criticism of it.

(LO3) Students will be able to explain the rule following considerations and their importance to Wittgenstein and contemporary philosophy of language.

(LO4) Students will be able to explain and assess the private language argument and its importance to contemporary philosophy of mind.

(LO5) Students will be able to explain and assess Wittgenstein's technical notion of 'criterion' and its philosophical significance.

(LO6) Students will be able to explain and assess Wittgenstein's later epistemology.

(S1) Students will enhance their ability to read complex texts.

(S2) Students will develop their analytical skills.

(S3) Students will enhance their ability to construct arguments.

(S4) Students will enhance their ability to work independently.

(S5) Students will develop the ability to make appropriate use of library resources and the internet.


Syllabus

 

Early Wittgenstein: World and Fact; Tractatus
Early Wittgenstein: The Limits of Language; Tractatus
Later Wittgenstein: The Augustinian Picture and the later ontology; Philosophical Investigations
Later Wittgenstein: Rule-Following; Philosophical Investigations
Later Wittgenstein: Grammar and Necessity; Philosophical Investigations
Later Wittgenstein: The Private Language Argument; Philosophical Investigations
Later Wittgenstein: The Role of Criteria; Philosophical Investigations
On Certainty: Knowledge and Certainty


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Description: 11 x 1 hour lectures.
Lectures are tutor-led activities, offering a map of the syllabus and a framework for independent enquiry-led research. Students are encouraged to engage actively with lectures through, for example: (i) taking opportunities to ask questions during the session; (ii) reflecting on and responding to questions posed to them; (iii) producing questions and notes on issues for subsequent group discussion in seminars.
Attendance Recorded: No

Teaching Method 2 – Seminar Description: 11 x 1 hour seminars.
Seminars present an opportunity for formative, applied and enquiry-led learning based on pre-set readings, facilitated by the tutor. Seminars thus offer opportunities for students to respond to tutor- and peer-set questions, deepen understanding, apply ideas, develop arguments and build confidence through group discussion. One or two students take the lead each week through peer-teaching, delivering presentations based on th eir own enquiries.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Delivery model scenarios:
a) mixed, hybrid delivery, with social distancing on campus: Lectures on-line; seminars on-campus

(b) fully online delivery and assessment: Lectures on-line; seminars on-line

(c) standard on campus delivery with minimal social distancing: Lectures on-campus; seminars on-campus


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 11

11

        22
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 128
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Seen Exam There is a resit opportunity.  2000 words    60       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Presentation. It is not possible for assessment to be anonymous. There is a resit opportunity via submission of a recording.  10-15 minute present    10       
Essay. There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission.  2,000 words    30       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.