Prospectus

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Philosophy of Psychology I: Natural History of Mind I

Course
2009-2010

Description

The past decade has seen a surge of interest in the origins of the modern mind, headed by Merlin Donald’s modern classic, Origins of the Modern Mind: Three Stages in the Evolution of Culture and Cognition (1991). Work in paleoanthropology and cognitive archeology, combined with studies in historical, cultural, and developmental psychology, is challenging the ahistorical bias of cognitive psychology at large, and puts under pressure the received idea that mankind forms a psychological unity. In this course we shall read and discuss a cross-section from recent work in evolutionary psychology and palaeoanthropology.

Timetable

see Timetables Philosophy

Method of instruction

Depending on the number of students, this course will be taught either as a full seminar or in the form of individual tutorials.

Examination

Oral and written presentations, participation in discussion, paper

Required reading

Syllabus to be announced

Admission requirements

Admission to this course is restricted to MA students in Philosophy of a Specific Discipline, specialisation Philosophy of Psychology. Advanced knowledge of philosophy of mind and/or cognitive science is required.

Information at

dr. J.J.M. Sleutels ( jan@sleutels.com)

Registration

Please register for this course with the student administration: y.van.eijk@phil.leidenuniv.nl