University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: To be arranged

This module will introduce students to issues surrounding conversation about difficult issues, especially about moral and political issues. The focus will be on how such conversations can break down, and what is required to make them go well. Topics may include: moral criticism, anger, civility, moral grandstanding, hypocrisy, polarisation, epistemic injustice, lying, gaslighting, echo chambers, conspiracy theories, Fake News, no platforming, free speech, and others.

Relationship to other modules

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

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 hours of classes per week (lecture and seminar), 1 office hour (x11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 44

Guided independent study hours: 259

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr J Snedegar
Module teaching staff: Dr Justin Snedegar Dr Justin D'Ambrosio
Module coordinator email js280@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Students will gain an understanding and ability to think rigorously about issues of contemporary concern.
• Students will develop skills in philosophical writing, both for professional and public audiences.
• Students will gain experience discussing potentially sensitive issues in a thoughtful way.
• Students will learn about ways that political and moral discussions can break down as a result of both malicious and apparently innocent behavior, and hopefully learn to avoid these in their own lives.