Epistemology – Theory of Knowledge What do we know and how do we know it? Epistemology is about exploring the sources of knowledge in our world – can we trust them? Can we really know anything at all? Do physical objects actually exist when we are not perceiving them? Here you consider the big ideas of Descartes, Locke, Russell and Hume. Moral Philosophy Here you examine some of the most important ethical theories (Utilitarianism, Aristotelian and Kantian ethics) and how they can be applied to modern issues such as simulated killing (in computer games, films, TV), the treatment of animals, telling lies and theft. How do we decide what is right and wrong is at the heart of this section. Should we have rules (Kant) or base our actions on consequences (Bentham and Mill)? Or should we focus on having a good character (Aristotle)? Our study of meta-ethics takes into the heart of ethical language itself. Metaphysics of God This section explores the big questions about the existence of God, the problem of evil and the nature of religious language. Here you get to grips, challenge and critically analyse the reasons why people believe and, indeed, whether they should at all. Metaphysics of Mind What do we mean by ‘mind’? The mind-body problem is at the heart of this part of the course. To what extent is the mind separate from the body, or are they the same thing? By considering the dualistic ideas of Descartes, Chalmer’s ‘philosophical zombie’ in contrast with the physicalist approaches of Hempel and Ryle, you will come to an understanding of one of the most important and contentious debates in modern philosophy.
No previous study of Philosophy or Religion is required. Successful candidates will have an Enthusiasm for debate and discussion matched by a capacity for analytical and logical thinking, a willingness to engage with abstract, conceptual ideas and a desire to examine philosophical texts first-hand.
There are two three hour examinations which consist of a cumulative set of shorter answers followed by extended writing. There is no coursework element.
About Education Provider
| Region | South East |
| Local Authority | Surrey |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | £47,535 |
| Sixth Form Fee | £38,367 |
| Address | Godalming, GU7 2DX |
Epistemology – Theory of Knowledge What do we know and how do we know it? Epistemology is about exploring the sources of knowledge in our world – can we trust them? Can we really know anything at all? Do physical objects actually exist when we are not perceiving them? Here you consider the big ideas of Descartes, Locke, Russell and Hume. Moral Philosophy Here you examine some of the most important ethical theories (Utilitarianism, Aristotelian and Kantian ethics) and how they can be applied to modern issues such as simulated killing (in computer games, films, TV), the treatment of animals, telling lies and theft. How do we decide what is right and wrong is at the heart of this section. Should we have rules (Kant) or base our actions on consequences (Bentham and Mill)? Or should we focus on having a good character (Aristotle)? Our study of meta-ethics takes into the heart of ethical language itself. Metaphysics of God This section explores the big questions about the existence of God, the problem of evil and the nature of religious language. Here you get to grips, challenge and critically analyse the reasons why people believe and, indeed, whether they should at all. Metaphysics of Mind What do we mean by ‘mind’? The mind-body problem is at the heart of this part of the course. To what extent is the mind separate from the body, or are they the same thing? By considering the dualistic ideas of Descartes, Chalmer’s ‘philosophical zombie’ in contrast with the physicalist approaches of Hempel and Ryle, you will come to an understanding of one of the most important and contentious debates in modern philosophy.
No previous study of Philosophy or Religion is required. Successful candidates will have an Enthusiasm for debate and discussion matched by a capacity for analytical and logical thinking, a willingness to engage with abstract, conceptual ideas and a desire to examine philosophical texts first-hand.
There are two three hour examinations which consist of a cumulative set of shorter answers followed by extended writing. There is no coursework element.