Browse Hierarchy PHIL6003: Metaphilosophy

This module introduces students to the recent field of experimental philosophy, helping them to understand how we can test philosophical theories empirically. Students will examine the roots of experimental philosophy in early modern authors such as Hume and Locke, who attempted to resolve philosophical issues through empirical observations, for example the question of whether a blind person would be able to associate things he previously felt with the things he newly sees. In the late 20th- early 21nd century, experimental philosophy has become a systematic way of testing philosophical intuitions, settling philosophical disputes, and also criticizing philosophers' reliance on intuitions that would be allegedly universal. In this respect, experimental philosophy has the potential of radically transforming our understanding of traditional philosophical issues. In this module, students will examine the role of empirical evidence in philosophy and how it is used in experimental philosophy. They will learn to interpret and conduct (at an elementary level - no advanced mathematical background is required) statistical tests to examine philosophical hypotheses. This module will provide both theoretical background and hands-on practical experience to learn how to conduct experimental philosophy. Through this module, students will learn how survey and experiment based quantitative studies can shed light on philosophical questions.