Postgraduate Module Descriptor

PHL2096: Cyborg Studies

This module descriptor refers to the 2024/5 academic year.

Module Aims

The social sciences have traditionally been 'humanist' disciplines, in as much as their empirical and theoretical focus is on human individuals, their interactions with one another, social groups and social structure. This module aims to develop a less anthropocentric or 'posthumanist' sensibility. With the figure of the cyborg, the cybernetic organism, a hybrid of human, animal and machine, as its icon, it explores the co-evolution of humans, machines, sciences and natures.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Critically assess and analyse relations between people (individuals and social groups), animals and machines
2. Demonstrate a clear understanding of theoretical perspectives appropriate to the analysis of these relations and exemplify with a range of contemporary and historical examples
Discipline-Specific Skills3. Demonstrate awareness and understanding of a range of philosophical, social scientific, and historical perspectives.
4. Identify the core theoretical assumptions and premises of these disciplines.
5. Apply theoretical and interpretive perspectives to the task of ethical, political and social analysis
6. Demonstrate appreciation of the strengths, weaknesses and limitations of different and competing philosophical, social scientific, and historical perspectives
Personal and Key Skills7. Reflect on, and examine, taken-for-granted social, cultural and ethical assumptions, beliefs and values
8. Analyse, evaluate, and communicate a range of explanatory and interpretive theoretical perspectives; assess evidence, marshal facts and construct arguments