Module description
This module provides an introduction to the history of Chinese philosophy. It examines the development of Chinese intellectual traditions through a study of central texts and the philosophical debates that shaped them.
Drawing on a range of primary sources in translation, students will explore the distinctive concerns and methodologies of Chinese philosophical inquiry.
The course also evaluates the relevance of works in this historical tradition to contemporary concerns in both Western and global philosophy, encouraging a comparative perspective on how different cultures address fundamental questions.
Assessment details
Summative assessment 1: In-seminar presentation, 10 minutes (30%)
Summative assessment 2: Essay, 2000 words (70%)
Educational aims & objectives
- To communicate a critical understanding of the central ideas and arguments within various schools of Chinese philosophy.
- To situate these thinkers within their historical and intellectual contexts.
- To demonstrate the relevance of ancient Chinese philosophical debates to contemporary issues in both Western and global philosophy.
- To develop students' skills in the analysis and evaluation of seminal philosophical works.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, the students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, transferable and practicable skills appropriate to a Level 5 module and in particular will be able to demonstrate:
- Knowledge of major systems and figures in Chinese philosophy.
- The ability to critically assess similarities and differences between Chinese and Western philosophical treatments of core issues.
- Precision in expressing philosophical ideas and arguments in both written and oral formats.
- An understanding of central themes and problems in Chinese philosophy.
Teaching pattern
One one-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks.