Philosophies of Imagination module (PI51026)

A journey through the history and future of imagination as a key condition and outlet for philosophy, with particular emphasis on creative practice.

On this page
Credits

20

Module code

PI51026

In this module, you will explore the concept of 'imagination' and its various dimensions.

You will examine key concepts, thinkers, and themes that contribute to our understanding of imagination, while investigating how philosophical theories can be applied to creative practices.

Additionally, you will consider the concept of philosophy as a 'creative practice', and explore whether life itself can be seen as a form of creative expression. Throughout the module, we will focus on the theme of inspiration and how philosophical theories can inspire us to be more imaginative and creative.

What you will learn

In this module you will:

  • gain an in-depth understanding of imagination and creativity as important themes throughout the history of philosophy
  • engage with a wide repertoire of cultural sources to provoke and focus imaginative and creative philosophical thinking: from artworks and films to literary extracts and adverts

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • use the practical applications of philosophy as a source of inspiration for creative practices
  • critique key philosophical concepts related to imagination and creativity, including, but not limited to: ‘the unconscious’, ‘method’, ‘solitude’, ‘madness’, ‘play’, and ‘dreaming’

Assignments / assessment

  • Essay 3,000 words (100%)

OR

  • art project description 1,500 words (30%)
  • applied art project (70%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

The first part of the module is concerned with key concepts. The aim is to gain an understanding of the key concepts from the history of philosophy that can subsequently be refined, applied, and developed as the module unfolds.

The second part of the module provides the opportunity to apply the key concepts gained. Each week, we will cover new themes and thinkers related to the overarching themes of imagination and creativity. We aim to include themes such as: ‘the unconscious’, ‘method’, ‘solitude’, ‘madness’, ‘play’, and ‘dreaming’.

Teaching is conducted via:

  • seminars
  • workshops
  • group critiquing sessions