Course Catalogue

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In this course we consider the nature, epistemic dimensions, function, and ethics of dreams. We primarily approach these from an analytical philosophical perspective but engage also with psychology, psychoanalysis, and neuroscience.

16x1 hr lectures; 4x1 hr seminars over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus. This is one of the Honours options in Philosophy and may not run every year. The options that are running this session are available on MyCampus.

Successful completion of Junior Honours Philosophy, and by arrangement to visiting students or students of other Honours programmes.

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The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ 1 x Essay (1500 words) - 45%

■ 1 x Short written piece (500 words) - 10%

■ 1 x Essay (1500 words) or 10-minute group podcast - 45%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available: 

■ There are no alternatives to the written assessments, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (Students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

■ Individual podcast or detailed script of equivalent length as alternative to the group podcast.

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.  

This course aims to:

■ Introduce competing philosophical theories and arguments concerning the nature, epistemology, function, and ethics of dreams.

■ Introduce perspectives on dreams from psychology, psychoanalysis, and neuroscience.

■ Provide an opportunity for students to hone their analytical and critical skills, by considering and developing key arguments and positions.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Understand and critically evaluate philosophical theories and arguments concerning the nature, epistemology, function, and ethics of dreams.

■ Analyse philosophical theories about dreaming in relation to findings and theories in the neuroscience and psychology of dreams.

■ Synthesise claims about dreams from philosophy, psychology, culture, and student's personal experience, to develop coherent and well-supported views about dreaming.