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 161-009 Knowledge, Truth and Relativism

Note

Formerly available as 161-212/312. Students who have completed 161-212/312 are not eligible to enrol in this subject. This subject is offered in alternate years with 161-010 Scepticism and Reason.

Credit Points

12.5

HECS Band

1

Coordinator

Dr Bruce Langtry

Prerequisites

One First Year single-semester Philosophy subject. Students who lack this prerequisite, but believe themselves adequately prepared to attempt any Second/Third Year subjects, should consult the Head of Department.

Semester

1 (view timetable)

Contact

Two 1-hour lectures per week for the first 11 weeks, and a 1-hour tutorial per week beginning the third week of semester

Subject Description

This subject examines the philosophical thesis that there is no absolute truth or knowledge: truth and knowledge are always relative to some specific intellectual tradition, or community, or individual outlook. There will be discussion of major authors who have influenced relativist thinking, such as Thomas Kuhn, Paul Feyerabend and Richard Rorty.

Assessment

Written work totalling 4000 words and participation in tutorials.

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