University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

This module will introduce students to important historical and contemporary literature on the philosophy of love and sex. Love, friendship, and sex are widely accepted as essential to a flourishing human life, yet few of us actually think critically through issues concerning love and sex despite the fact that they both play such a fundamental role in our lives. This module will strengthen students' critical thinking skills while exploring the nature of love and sex through the consideration of questions like: What is love? Does parental love differ from sibling love, friendship love, erotic love, or romantic love? Why might love be essential to a flourishing human life? To answer these questions properly requires thinking about definitions, historical discussions, and implications of love. What is sex? When we want to have sex, what is it that we actually want? Why do we want sex? What are the moral, social, and physical issues concerning sex?

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must take PY1006 or take PY1012

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 hours of class (lecture and seminar). The staff member will also hold a weekly office hour for consultation for students on this module.

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 267

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Re-Assessment is by one or more essays, totalling no more than 7000 words, questions to be set by module coordinator.

Personnel