Assessment

Essay 40%, final exam 60%

Module Aims

This module will examine the encyclical Fides et Ratio of Pope Saint John Paul II, which explores the relationship between faith and reason historically and in contemporary society. The module will focus on the key themes of the encyclical, including the nature and limits of reason, the relationship between faith and reason, the role of philosophy in the pursuit of truth, and the challenges facing contemporary society in its search for truth and meaning. Learners will engage with the text of the encyclical and relevant secondary literature, and will develop their own critical perspectives on the issues raised.

Learning Outcomes

• — LO1 Recognise and explain the main ideas in Pope Saint John Paul II's encyclical Fides et ratio within a broad historical and philosophical context.
• — LO2 Summarise the key points in the development of Pope Saint John Paul II's ideas leading up to his encyclical Fides et ratio.
• — LO3 Demonstrate a solid understanding of the fundamental philosophical ideas presented in the encyclical Fides et ratio by Pope Saint John Paul II.
• — LO4 Evaluate the significance of Fides et ratio for contemporary philosophical debates, including discussions on the relationship between science and religion, the nature of rationality and belief, and the limits of human knowledge.
• — LO5 Develop personal perspectives on the relationship between faith and reason inspired by Fides et ratio, and identify some of the challenges in contemporary society's search for truth and meaning.

Bibliography

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