PHIL 31.04 Realism and AntiRealism

In this course, we will explore a portion of the complex web of debates between realists and antirealists.  Questions we will consider include: What is realism? On what bases do we commit to the existence of something? To what extent, if any, are objects of experience and inquiry (e.g. colors, values, natural laws, numbers) independent of the mind? What role, if any, does the mind play in the construction or conception of meanings, properties or things? What role does language play in determining ontological commitments? What is truth? What, if anything, do distinct conceptions of meaning, objectivity and truth suggest about the nature of reality or about the mind's capacity to determine or to know what is real?

Prerequisite

One Philosophy course, or permission of the instructor.

Degree Requirement Attributes

Dist:TMV

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