This course examines key topics in the philosophy of religion. Through lectures and seminars, students will gain a deeper understanding of philosophical arguments concerning the existence of God, the nature of religious experience, and the problem of evil.

16x1hr lectures; 4x1hrs seminars over ten 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.

PHIL3010 - Philosophy of Religion

None

The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Exam (90 minutes) - 40%

■ Essay (3000 words) - 60%

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 exam, but extra time can be offered as reasonable adjustment.

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

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

This course aims to:

■ Explore some of the core topics in contemporary philosophy of religion,

■ Recognise the philosophical issues arising from religious ideas,

■ Use analytical arguments to evaluate the arguments for and against the existence of God.

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

■ Analyse religious beliefs and the arguments adduced for and against those beliefs;

■ Argue coherently about religious ideas;

■ Critically assess the main philosophical issues involved in at least two of the traditional arguments for the existence of God;

■ Critically discuss the problem of evil;

■ Critically discuss the nature and role of religious experience.