161-009 Knowledge, Truth and Relativism

At least one first-year single-semester philosophy subject or permission from the Head of Department or subject coordinator.

This subject examines the philosophical thesis that there is no absolute truth, knowledge or rationality; they 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.

• be able to understand both the heart of a philosophical issue and its broader implications;

• have learnt to form a critical understanding of philosophical texts;

• have developed their skills to construct rigorous philosophical arguments.

A written assignment of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester), a 2-hour closed-book written examination 47% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 3%.