PHIL411 CONTINENTAL RATIONALISM

Course Code:2410411
METU Credit (Theoretical-Laboratory hours/week):3 (3.00 - 0.00)
ECTS Credit:5.0
Department:Philosophy
Language of Instruction:English
Level of Study:Undergraduate
Course Coordinator:Res.Dr. SELMA AYDIN BAYRAM
Offered Semester:Fall or Spring Semesters.

Course Objectives


Course Content

This course examines the philosophies of the three leading thinkers of the 17th century: Descartes, Spinoza and Leibniz. The emphasis is on the central theses associated with rationalism: (i) that at least some of our concepts are not gained from experience but are innate; and (ii) that reason alone can provide us with knowledge of the external world through `intuition` of self-evident propositions and through `deduction` from those propositions. Selections from the most important works of these philosopherswill be read. Epistemological, metaphysical, ontological, and ethical issues of the Continental Rationalism will be investigated with reference to these central theses. Relations between Continental Rationalism and British Empiricism will be brought into view.


Course Learning Outcomes


Program Outcomes Matrix

Level of Contribution
#Program Outcomes0123
1Have the knowledge and skills of research method which is a requirement in order to be successful in academic studies.
2Have the capacity for applying philosophical knowledge to scientific and social issues.
3Examine and analyze a subject matter and make philosophical interpretations on it.
4Have the skills of critical thinking, analytical approach, problem solving, multi-dimensional view, making inferences and interpretations regarding to philosophical texts and scientific facts.
5Identify the basic concepts and issues in philosophy.
6Evaluate and understand the underlying philosophical assumptions of fundamental and social sciences.
7Have capacity to make interdisciplinary readings and analysis.
8Have verbal and written presentation and effective communication skills, be open to team work and do interdisciplinary study.
9Make connections between contemporary ethical, social, cultural, esthetic and politic issues.
10Interpret the historical development of scientific and philosophical questions.
11Have knowledge about contemporary philosophical issues and their relations to other disciplines.
12Use modern information tools in order to make research in philosophy.
13Improve their professional and personal skills lifelong.
14Use information technologies effectively in domain applications in philosophy.
15Have self-confidence and develop original ideas regarding to philosophy.
16Have social and ethical responsibility regarding to contemporary issues.
17Have good knowledge of English, research method and computer skills and use these skills effectively.
18Comprehend the basic theories and issues in sub-disciplines of philosophy.
19Have an advanced knowledge in certain specific fields such as environment, technology, culture, art etc.

0: No Contribution 1: Little Contribution 2: Partial Contribution 3: Full Contribution