PHIL 5529 Metaphysics
The course begins with classical modern philosophers. Their problems concern the relation of mind and body, the possibility of objective knowledge, and cause and effect. Their method is that of science, combining both empirical and logical elements. After these modern thinkers, giving our cultural assumptions, we turn to Ancient and Medieval philosophers. Their problems concern the relation of spirit and matter, the analogy of being and truth, and causal explanation. Their method is one of dialogue. With this different set of problems and method, we will be able to evaluate the relative strengths of these different philosophical positions. Satisfies the following distribution requirement (s) for Philosophy: Knowledge & Reality, History of Philosophy, Ancient, Medieval.
Course overview
- Department
- Philosophy
- School
- MCAS
- Credits
- 3
- Level
- Both
- Offered
- Periodically in the Spring
Catalog details
- Prerequisites
- Philosophy Core and Permission of Instructor for Undergraduate Students.
Requirements fulfilled
- Philosophy: Free Philosophy electives (five courses, 15 credits); up to two approved cognate courses in other departments may also count (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
- Philosophy: Knowledge and Reality distribution (one course) (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
Course evaluations
- Course rating
- 4.42 / 5 · Very Good
- Instructor rating
- 4.39 / 5 · Very Good
- Terms evaluated
- 4
| Term | Instructor | Course overall | Instructor overall | Well organized | Clear learning objectives | Intellectually challenging | Helpful assignments | Applicable beyond course | Attendance necessary | Weekly effort | Responses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | Gary Gurtler | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4–6 hrs/week | 15 of 19 |
| Fall 2024 | Gary Gurtler | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.9 | — | 16 of 20 |
| Fall 2023 | Gary Gurtler | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 9 of 11 |
| Fall 2021 | Gary Gurtler | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 4–6 hrs/week | 17 of 24 |