Thinking Across Fields: Philosophy, Science and Art module (PI52004)

In this module we will explore new ways of thinking and working across fields - with a special focus on philosophy, art, and the sciences.

Many of the toughest challenges confronting the world today cross traditional disciplinary fields – such as climate change, global health, social justice, pollution, and habitat/species loss. In response to this, new conversations and more inventive ways of doing research across fields are emerging. These new methods acknowledge the connections between human communities and the natural world, diseases, climate, geology, and technologies.

In the module, we will explore questions such as; how should we understand life and evolution? How do the sciences see and model the world? What relationships do scientists form with their research matter and the public? Is it possible to think, create and work collectively across fields, without ignoring the differences? What concepts, knowledge, and new ways of thinking does this call for?

What you will learn

In this module you will:

• learn about key debates, concepts, theories, methods, and approaches at the intersection of philosophy, art, and science
• develop your own critical voice within these discussions
• work collaboratively with peers
• develop the skills to undertake independent research using appropriate primary and secondary sources

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

• engage critically and creatively with thinkers, artists. and researchers who work inventively across fields to respond to pressing social and ecological problems
• understand key texts and movements at the intersection of philosophy, art, and science
• exercise autonomy and initiative
• work collaboratively to foster debate and reflection in interdisciplinary contexts
• develop the vocabulary and skills to think and work across fields

Assignments / assessment

For the assignment (100%) students can choose one of the following three options:

• Essay (3,250 words)
• Poster and written report (1,750 words)

Creative art project and scholarly reflection (1,750 words)

Teaching methods / timetable

Two hour interactive seminar, fortnightly.

Students will be given readings and other resources to prepare for class.

They will also be encouraged to bring questions, discussion points, and/or examples from relevant artistic or scientific practice to class.