Assessment

Mid-term 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 Contextualise the thought of Pope Saint John Paul II in his encyclical Fides et ratio.
• — LO2 Trace a historical trajectory of the development of the thought of Pope Saint John Paul II leading up to his encyclical Fides et ratio.
• — LO3 Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the key philosophical ideas of the encyclical Fides et ratio of Pope Saint John Paul II.
• — LO4 Assess the relevance of Fides et ratio for contemporary philosophical debates, such as the relationship between science and religion, the nature of rationality and belief, and the limits of human knowledge.
• — LO5 Develop, in the light of Fides et ratio, their own philosophical perspectives on the relationship between faith and reason, and the challenges facing contemporary society in its search for truth and meaning.