Philosophy

SACE Credits: 10

Teacher: Dr Barbara Harding

Ideas! Questions! The study of philosophy is the study of ideas from the Classical Period (BC) through to the Renaissance, the Enlightenment and contemporary times. Students look at Ethics e.g. the ethical behaviour of governments and society and the moral behaviour of individuals. We also study Metaphysical questions such as ‘what is it that makes us human?’; ‘how do we know what is real?’ Plus we examine ‘what ideals underpin the political and social structures of our society?; ‘how has science influenced our perception of society and life?’

 

We look at philosophers from Socrates to Plato, Descartes, Hobbes, Locke, Kant, Schopenhauer, Norwich and his Reality Machine.  We look at logic and reason, how to construct an argument. We follow the questions and see where we end up. Unfortunately there is not much space for everything – there are just too many questions!

 

In Semester Two we focus on Science and Philosophy and what it is that makes us human – different from AI? Again we look at philosophical thought through the ages, focussing on a variety of philosophers and philosophies from the Classical Period (BC) through to the Renaissance. The Enlightenment through to contemporary times. Along with a study of Moral Philosophy we will look at political philosophy and the overall question “I think therefore I am”. Again so many unanswerably questions begging for answers!

Assessment:

  • Assessment Type 1: Folio (60%)
  • Assessment Type 2: Issues Analysis (20%)
  • Assessment Type 3: Issues Study (20%)

Pathways:

Philosophy can lead to further study in tertiary institutions in a diverse range of fields. Students who are interested in studying for a Bachelor of Arts, Social Science and/or Science can all gain from the study of Philosophy as it guides students in developing the skills of analysis, reasoning, logic and argument.

 

The academic structures behind any field of study can be enhanced through the study of Philosophy as students are encouraged to rationalise different perspectives. Other specific pathways are teaching, psychology, law and social work.