Philosophy

This course unit treats the history of philosophy from Socrates to about 1200, including the transformation of Greek thought by the medieval Christian West. It is an introductory level course and so inducts students into reading philosophy and participating in philosophical discussion.

WH120
Critical Thinking
Teacher: J Owens

This course unit provides structured, practical instruction in the nature of and skills of critical thinking.

NZQA NQF Level 5 (15 credits)

WH209
The Emergence of Modern Thought
Teacher: J Owens

This course unit treats the thought of significant philosophers from Albert the Great to Kant (1200-1800), with special attention to the transformations that occurred with the rise of modernity. It complements WSB101 both in subject matter and in the development of philosophical skills and attitudes.

NZQA NQF Level 6 (15 credits)

WH222
Moral Philosophy
Teacher: J Owens

This course unit in moral philosophy examines the nature of morality and the chief ethical theories that have been proposed. Special attention is given to the meaning of human action, to the development of moral character, and to the relationship between virtue and moral reasoning.

NZQA NQF Level 6 (15 credits)

WH311
Modern Continental Philosophy
Teacher: J Owens

This course unit introduces students to major issues and trends in philosophical thinking in the period from Kant and the Enlightenment to twentieth century existentialism. Emphasis will be given to themes of special relevance to theology. The relationship between Continental European and Anglo-American (empiricist) philosophy will also be considered.

NZQA NQF Level 7 (15 credits)

WH331
Being, Existence and God: Thomistic Metaphysics
Teacher: J Owens

This course unit identifies the major philosophical issues and related concepts which inform the study of being, existence and God. Particular attention is given to primary sources (especially Aquinas) as a means of determining the direction, structure and content of metaphysical thinking.

NZQA NQF Level 7 (15 credits)

WH332
The Human Person
Teacher: J Owens

This course unit examines various philosophical approaches to who and what we are as human beings. Special consideration is given to questions about the mind-body relation, immortality and bodily resurrection, freedom, knowledge and love, and the nature of human personhood.

NZQA NQF Level 7(15 credits)