Philosophy

Reason and Argument

Module code: V7079
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Workshop, Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework

On this module, you’ll learn how to distinguish good arguments from bad arguments by looking at real-world examples from advertising, marketing, politics, law and the media.

In all these areas, bad arguments are used to manipulate us. You’ll learn how to reason more clearly and resist manipulation. You’ll then put your reasoning skills to work by constructing a response to a real-world brief from an industry partner such as Microsoft. This will develop your skills of collaboration, critical thinking and creative problem-solving, as well as your ability to communicate key claims and arguments effectively.

Module learning outcomes

• Characterise and distinguish between central argument forms.
• Be able to identify some invalid arguments.
• Understand the concept of thruth-functionality and validity.
• Show understanding of some famous philosophical paradoxes and approaches to them.