Philosophy & Science of Consciousness (C8893)
Note to prospective students: this content is drawn from our database of current courses and modules. The detail does vary from year to year as our courses are constantly under review and continuously improving, but this information should give you a real flavour of what it is like to study at Sussex.
We’re currently reviewing teaching and assessment of our modules in light of the COVID-19 situation. We’ll publish the latest information as soon as possible.
Philosophy and Science of Consciousness
Module C8893
Module details for 2024/25.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
The module examines the problems and prospects for a science of consciousness. Topics include: defining consciousness, the Hard Problem, the Knowledge Argument against physicalism, qualia, theories of the self, the neuroscience of consciousness, attention and volition, machine consciousness, the evolution and function of consciousness, the Grand Illusion theory.
Module learning outcomes
Summarise and critically evaluate recent arguments against the possibility of a physicalistic science of consciousness.
Critically discuss various theories of consciousness (e.g., global workspace theory, higher-order thought theory, et al).
Critically discuss recent findings concerning the neural basis of experience.
Argue effectively for positions of various related issues, such as the function of consciousness, the possibility of artificial consciousness, the causal role of experience in voluntary action, and the evolutionary function of consciousness.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Based Exam | Semester 2 Assessment | 50.00% |
| Coursework | 50.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Presentation | T2 Week 11 (15 minutes) | 30.00% |
| Essay | T2 Week 11 | 70.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Simon Bowes
Assess convenor
/profiles/169679
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.