Unit information: Ideas and Society in 2020/21

Unit name	Ideas and Society
Unit code	AFAC20002
Credit points	20
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Malay
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Arts Faculty Office
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit takes a single philosophical idea that has been influential in the history of human society, and considers its philosophical basis, its historical importance, the way in which it changed over the course of history, and the ways in which it spread and means by which it was suppressed. The unit explores the arguments that have surrounded the idea, both in favour of it and against it, as well as arguments that serve to clarify or amend the idea. It investigates, through case studies, some of the effects that this idea has had on society at various points in its history. Some possible topics include environmentalism, human rights, scientific method and the rise of modern science, equality, or reason and its discontents. Weekly lectures could explore the history and conceptual foundation of the idea, while seminars could ensure that concepts were understood while exploring a selection of case studies.

The unit aims:

• To introduce students to elements of philosophical analysis of concepts
• To impart an awareness of the history of ideas
• To enhance students’ awareness of the historical contingency and philosophical underpinnings of ideas that shape the society they live in
• To encourage critical reflection on such ideas and their social impact
• To improve skills of verbal and written presentation

As part of this unit, students are asked to submit a formative essay on a topic related to the course. This formative essay may also be seen as opportunity to submit a draft or outline of the final, summative essay of up to 1,500 words and to receive feedback on this.

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the unit, students should be able to:

1. Understand and critically assess the philosophical arguments for and against the various positions surrounding the idea in question.
2. Compare how the idea emerged in different ways and different forms at different times and places in history.
3. Compare how different media have played a role in the spread of the idea and its suppression.
4. Construct coherent, relevant and persuasive arguments on different aspects of the subject, showing critical thought and displaying full understanding of academic conventions.

Teaching Information

Teaching will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities, including lectures, group discussion, writing exercises, and reflective activities. Students will be expected to engage with readings and participate on a weekly basis. There will be opportunities for tutor and peer feedback.

Assessment Information

1. Summative 3,000 word essay (100%). [ ILOs 1-4]

Reading and References

The list will change according to the theme chosen. For human rights, the list might include:

Jones, P., 1994, Rights, New York: St. Martin's Press

Edmundson, W., 2004, An Introduction to Rights, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press

Campbell, T., 2006, Rights: A Critical Introduction, London: Routledge

Morsink, J. 2000, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Origins, Drafting, and Intent, University of Pennsylvannia Press

Nickel, J. 2007, Making Sense of Human Rights, Wiley