Philosophy at Flinders

Flinders thought experiment competition is run by the philosophy department at Flinders university. Students major in philosophy while doing the Bachelor of Arts, but many students take philosophy classes while majoring in related subjects like psychology, social work, medical sciences and creative writing. Our level 1 classes are also popular with high school students doing extension studies to top up their ATAR scores (Critical thinking, Introduction to Moral and Political Philosophy, Mind World & God).

Our philosophy staff have a particular expertise on the connection between philosophy and the arts and we teach several topics relating to this.

Identity in Science Fiction (PHIL3602)

What are we? Are we essentially minds? brains? souls? animals? Is there even such a thing as the self? This topic will explore these options by means of science fiction short stories, each of which presents a way in which a person can be altered yet potentially continue to exist. Along the way, a number of key philosophical concepts will be introduced, including the difference between a thing and its qualities, the nature of time, consciousness, and emergence. Students will also be permitted to write their own fiction that explores a philosophical theory of the self. 

Philosophy and Literature (PHIL2609)

This topic is both a philosophical examination of literature and an examination of how literature may contribute to philosophy. Specific issues and questions to be discussed will include: What makes a work of literature a work of art? What makes something a work of literature? How can readers respond emotionally to fictional characters?; Is one of the central values of literature to impart truths? In what ways might literature as literature contribute to moral understanding? 

Aesthetics and the Values of Art (PHIL3607)

This topic focuses on issues surrounding aesthetic value, ranging freely over visual art, music, literature, film and the aesthetic appreciation of nature. We will examine specific aesthetic values such as the beautiful, the sublime, the comic, and the tragic We will then consider issues such as the definition of art, the difference between art and pornography, and the role of art in living a good life, and the relation between art and ethics. 

The Emotional Power of Music (PHIL3608)

Music has a special connection with emotion. This topic explores how music manages to capture emotional qualities and to arouse emotions in listeners. It considers the emotional factors behind liking or disliking music, and why people like to listen to music that makes them sad. We will also explore the difference between listening on your own and listening with other people, as well as the question of whether music can help us to become better people. This topic is particularly recommended for students in creative industries, philosophy, and psychology. It will also give students the option to create and reflect on their own musical activities. 

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