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 PHILOSOPHY OF THE FUTURE
Code PHIL312
Coordinator Prof BF Dainton
Philosophy
Bdainton@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2018-19 Level 6 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To provide an introduction to debates concerning the philosophical implications of foreseeable future technological innovations.

To examine the relevance of metaphysical and ethical considerations to future technological and scientific developments.

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to identify the main issues and positions in contemporary philosophical discussions of issues such as human enhancement, existential risks, teleportation, time travel, the technological singularity, the simulation argument, the feasibility and desirability of uploading into virtual worlds.
Students will be able to explain the main strengths and weaknesses of these positions.
Students will be able to explain the relevance of metaphysical and ethical considerations to debates concerning these issues. 

Students will be able to think more creatively about philosophical issues.

Students will be able to structure philosophical arguments relating issues raised by future technological developments.

Students will be able to articulate and defend specific positions in current philosophical debates concerning likely future developments in science and technology.

Students will be able to write coherently and rigourously about the philosophical issues raised by future technological developments.


Syllabus

The topics we will be addressing will include the following:


Existential Risks (to the species - what are they, what have philosophers to offer).

Human Enhancement: what is it?  How likely is it?  Is it ethical?

The Singularity: the prospects and perils of superintelligence

Simulation Argument: how likely is it that we''re living in a computer simulation?

Virtual Worlds: how should we think of them?  Is uploading into them viable?  Are virtual lives less desirable or less ''real'' than real ones?

Immortality: something to be desired, if it could be achieved?

Teleportation: survivable?  

Time Travel: possible?

Many Worlds: why take them seriously? How do they impact on ethics?

Aliens: the Fermi paradox.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lecture - 11 x 1 hour lectures

Seminar - 11 x 1 hour seminars


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 11
11 x 1 hour lectures
11
11 x 1 hour seminars
        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
Unseen Written Exam  120  60  Yes    Examination Notes (applying to all assessments) Assessed presentation (10%). Presentations occur in seminars and are assessed by the seminar tutor. It is not possible for assessed presentations to be marked anonymously. Essay (30%). Examination (60%).  
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Practical Assessment  10-15 minute seminar  10  No reassessment opportunity    Presentation There is no reassessment opportunity,  
Coursework  2,000 words  30  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Essay 

Recommended Texts

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