Undergraduate Module Descriptor

PHL2027: Feminist Philosophy

This module descriptor refers to the 2018/9 academic year.

Module Aims


This module aims to
- teach theories of difference and equality
- provide you with an understanding for the historical development of feminist theory and practice
- engage you in current debates about discrimination and equality, biology and difference
- develop your skills in analysis, argument, discussion, and writing

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. Demonstrate solid knowledge and understanding of the theories and problems discussed in the course
2. Demonstrate understanding of the methodological and conceptual problems of critique
Discipline-Specific Skills3. Demonstrate a high level of understanding of the interrelation between theories, values, and political conditions
4. Demonstrate sound knowledge of different types of philosophical social and political analysis
Personal and Key Skills5. Conduct research independently and to discuss complex present-day issues
6. Demonstrate a high level of ability in writing reflective academic essays
7. Present your own analyses of the implications theories have on the kinds of arguments which people put forth as convincing in political debates

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics:

- The beginnings of feminist theory in the 18th and 19th Century

- The developments in 20th Century and current Feminism

- Feminist Epistemology

- Theories of Difference

- Standpoint Theory

- Feminist Ethics

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching ActivitiesGuided independent studyPlacement / study abroad
221280

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

CategoryHours of study timeDescription
Scheduled learning activity 1111 x 1 hour lectures
Scheduled learning activity 1111 x 1 hour seminar
Guided independent study666 x 11 hrs weekly reading and working through assigned articles and books
Guided independent study20Preparing presentation and handout
Guided independent study42Independent research and writing of course essay

Online Resources

This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).