180141 PS Ontology and Metaphysics (2016S)

Course topic: In this course, we will cover some of the main topics debated in contemporary metaphysics. We will first introduce ontology, the branch of metaphysics that deals with the notion of and the criteria for existence. We will then move on to identity, and to questions such as "When do two things count as identical?" as well as classic puzzles such as that of the ship of Theseus. In the last part of the course, we will address the issue of identity through time, presenting the various problems created by the notions of persistence and change through time, as well as the answers discussed in contemporary literature (e.g. three-dimensionalism and four-dimensionalism).

Course aim: The student will become familiar with classic problems and riddles concerning existence, identity and persistence, but from a contemporary perspective. The course aims at encouraging a critical approach to the readings assigned. Students will be encouraged to exercise their critical-thinking skills, by finding objections or proposing their own solutions to certain problems.