Undergraduate Module Descriptor

PHL2054: Philosophy of Psychiatry

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

The aim of this module is to introduce you to core debates within the exciting and burgeoning field of philosophy of psychiatry. It will present, explore and critically evaluate different approaches, positions and theories within philosophy of psychiatry, and will elucidate connections between these and theoretical commitments in other areas of philosophy (e.g. philosophy of mind or ethics). You will therefore enrich your thinking not only about mental disorder, but also about other areas in philosophy. It will also encourage you to think critically and constructively about current mental health policies.

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. identify and cogently discuss the key methods, questions, themes and topics in philosophy of psychiatry;
2. critically distinguish and evaluate different approaches and arguments within core areas of philosophy of psychiatry with particular focus on psychiatry and psychiatric conditions.
Discipline-Specific Skills3. demonstrate a high level of understanding of the interrelation between theories, values and lived experience;
4. demonstrate sound knowledge of different types of philosophical analysis.
Personal and Key Skills5. demonstrate a significantly expanded philosophical vocabulary and understanding with respect to key ideas in philosophy of psychiatry;
6. engage in complex arguments both orally and through writing;
7. conduct research independently engaging with complex ideas and problems.