FIL2390 ¨C Environmental Philosophy

Course content

The course explores key philosophical issues regarding the moral status of nature (individuals, species, ecosystems) and whether this status differs substantially from the status of humans. No less fundamental than the ethical issue is the ontological one regarding what nature is. This cannot be discussed independently of how a given culture understands (construes) nature, be it as spirited, sacred, inherently valuable or as soulless material, a reservoar of resources solely of instrumental value. Do humans see themselves as a part of nature or as apart from nature? Particular emphasis will be given to the significance of technology in shaping, both philosophically and pragmatically, society`s relationship with nature.

Learning outcome

When you have completed this course, you are expected to

• be able to demonstrate a thorough insight in problems of environmental philosophy, and also be able to discuss different views critically in writing
• be able to demonstrate an overview of differences, similarities and connections between different views within environmental philosophy
• demonstrate an overview of the changes in the philosophical way of perceiving nature, from Descartes and up until today
• be able to give critical and independent assessments of the different views

Admission to the course

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.

Recommended previous knowledge

We strongly recommend that you take FIL1003 first.

Overlapping courses

• 5 credits overlap with FIL2393 ¨C Environmental Philosophy.

Teaching

14 double sessions which will be a combination of seminars and lectures.

The course has the following compulsory activities:

• A written assignment of 4-5 pages. To be submitted in Canvas.

All compulsory activities must be accepted as satisfactory in order for the student to qualify for the final exam. The activities are only valid for one semester.

This is how you apply for a valid absence from / postponement of compulsory activities.

Examination

A 3-days take home exam of 7-9 pages, references not included.. You submit your exam in Inspera.

Compulsory tuition activities must be accepted as satisfactory in order to qualify for the exam.

Exam question and grading guidelines Spring 2021

Language of examination

The examination text is given in Norwegian. You may submit your response in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.

More about examinations at UiO

• Use of sources and citations
• Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
• Withdrawal from an exam
• Illness at exams / postponed exams
• Explanation of grades and appeals
• Resitting an exam
• Cheating/attempted cheating

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.