Module VPR-2205:
Nature and Western Religion

Module Facts

Run by School of History, Law and Social Sciences

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Overall aims and purpose

This module explores some central and perennial problems and issues in the philosophy of religion, ranging from the Problem of Evil to the Nature of Atheism, from an historical and contemporary perspective. This module will enable students to critically assess, discuss and understand some of the fundamental dilemmas generated by religious belief. In so doing, they will develop skills of analysis and philosophical engagement.

Course content

This module will articulate and critically explore, in both an historical and contemporary setting: The God of Love and the Problem of Human Suffering; The Concept of Prayer; Death, Immortality and Eternal Life; The Concept of Miracles; The Nature of Atheism; The Meaning of Life.

Assessment Criteria

threshold

D- - D +. Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows:

 Generally accurate but with omissions and errors.  Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning.  Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions.  Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

good

Good C- - C +. Submitted work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates:  Good structure and logically developed arguments.  At least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.  Assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning.  Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Very Good B- - B+. Submitted work is competent throughout and distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates:  Very good structure and logically developed arguments.  Draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student.  Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning.  Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

excellent

A - - A*. Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways:  Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent.  Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study.  Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

Learning outcomes

  1. Demonstrate understanding of key problems in the Philosophy of Religion.

  2. Show a sound knowledge of basic thematic philosophical problems of religious belief.

  3. Demonstrate a critical approach to complex philosophical issues.

  4. Show an ability to construct a sound and rigorous philosophical argument.

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
Essay 1 50.00
Essay 2 50.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
 

1 hour lecture per week x 11 weeks 1 hour seminar per week x 11 weeks

  

Courses including this module

Optional in courses: