The Metaphysics of Duns Scotus
Module Code: 706FMDS Credits: 20 Contact Hours: 20 Level: 7 Lecturer: Seamus Mulholland OFM
Syllabus
This module aims to examine the fundamental architecture of the metaphysics of Duns Scotus and to demonstrate its importance both in the 13th century and in contemporary thought. The module focuses its main attentions on Scotus’s understanding of the proper object of metaphysics, for Questions on the Metaphysics of Aristotle, univocity of Being, the Parisian proof for the existence of a First Principle from Reportata Parisiensis 1 A, Lectura 39, the formal and modal distinctions, and the principle of differentiation with common natures [haecceitas].
The module will show Scotus’ engagement with some of the complex problems of 13th century metaphysics and demonstrate his unique solutions to these problems. It will then move to show Scotus’ importance in the history of European ideas and his relevance for areas in contemporary metaphysics such as ontology, philosophy of mind, philosophy of language and philosophical anthropology [more commonly called Philosophy of Man] and why Scotus is still both an important and potent metaphysician.
Assessment
5,000 word essay.
Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
- explore in detail the fundamental tenets of Scotus’s metaphysics
- show Scotus’s contributions to 13th century metaphysical debates
- examine the content and semantic structure or his arguments especially the Parisian proof
- show the importance and relevance of Scotus for contemporary metaphysics
Subject Specific Skills
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
- read and comprehend the complex metaphysical ideas in Duns Scotus
- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Scotus’s approach to the structuring of his arguments
- show the place of Dun Scotus within the overall ethos of 13th Century metaphysician debates
- show the influence and importance of Duns Scotus for areas of philosophical concern today such as Philosophy of Language, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Man.
Transferable Skills
Assessed: Identify relevant sources of information, critically evaluating the material and present their own interpretation in a coherent way, showing and ability to understand complex lines of reasoning.
IT: Use IT effectively to aid efficient researching, evaluation and selection of information, and to present work using a format and styled to suit the purpose, subject and audience.
Practiced: Working with others: establish and effectively maintain co-operative working relationships and negotiate and develop effective ways of presenting outcomes.
Improving own learning: identify future targets, manage time effectively and critically reflect on what and how they are learning
Problem Solving : Select information effectively to tackle a particular issue or problem raised by Duns Scotus’ approach to metaphysics and present information clearly and accurately, with evidence to support their conclusions
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