Teaching

PHL240 - Persons, Minds, and Bodies

This course explores the nature of persons, minds, and bodies through close reading of classic and contemporary papers in metaphysics, philosophy of action, philosophy of mind, and cognitive science. Questions to be addressed include: What is a person? What does it mean for a person to act? What is the connection between having a mind and having a body? Can we extend our minds outside of our bodies? Can AI systems have minds? How can technology alter or enhance our minds? By the end of the course, you should understand what these questions are really about, what kinds of answers have been given, and maybe even how you think they ought to be answered. You will also get the chance to hone your skills at analytical thinking, reading, and writing through tutorials, exercises, workshops, and assessments.

Syllabus