Objectivity and Value

Subject 674-304 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2008.
Time Commitment: Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: At least one first-year single-semester philosophy subject or permission from the Head of School or subject coordinator.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Dr Christopher Cordner
Subject Overview:

This subject explores the nature of value  including moral and ethical value, and aesthetic, religious and political value  in human life. Are such values capable of being objectively true or real; or are they essentially ÂsubjectiveÂ, having no ground or warrant outside the individualÂs (or perhaps the cultureÂs) choosing of them? Or does the truth about value lie somewhere else again?

Assessment: 3 tutorial essays, worth a total of 25%, an essay worth 35%, and an end-of-semester exam worth 40%
Prescribed Texts: Prescribed Texts:A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • have developed their powers of critical and analytical thinking, and be able to apply these powers to problems and issues in other areas of philosophy, and in other disciplines

  • have acquired a greater capacity both to articulate and express their thoughts, and also to communicate them clearly and directly

  • have an increased understanding of the impact of social, ethical and cultural context on many areas of human activity

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