Aquinas & Thomisms (Distance Learning - 20 credits)
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| THEO4037 | Philosophy | 4 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- THEO4037
- School
- Philosophy
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module concerns the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas (c.1225-1274) and the associated theological and philosophical school known as Thomism. Through a close reading of a range of primary texts, we will examine some key themes in Aquinas's work including the relationship between theology and philosophy, the doctrine of creation, Christology and the sacraments. This will lead to an examination of the most significant moments in the history of the interpretation of Aquinas, from Suarez (1548-1617) to the present day.
Target Students
Only available to postgraduate students in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies
Classes
Printed study pack with primary and secondary sources and questions for consideration;Contact with the module tutor by email, Moodle, Skype, or letter on points of interest and questions requiring further clarification or explanation;Recorded interviews provided through webct;Online discussion with the module tutor and fellow students;Lectures at the annual Spring Seminar.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: 3000-4000 word essay
Assessed by end of designated period
Educational Aims
This module has two aims. First, the module will develop students' understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas through the study of primary texts from across his body of work. Secondly, the module will enable students to study the reception of Aquinas's theology and philosophy and the varieties of interpretation in Thomist thought.Learning Outcomes
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
demonstrate knowledge of key aspects of Aquinas's thought through critical analysis of a range of primary texts;
demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the reception of Aquinas's work and the varieties of Thomism.
INTELLECTUAL SKILLS:
ability to interpret and critically reflect upon difficult mediaeval theological-philosophical texts,
combining independence of judgment with appropriate recognition of existing scholarship;
ability to think critically, independently and in depth about theological issues;
ability to engage in significant independent research;
ability to present the results of research in written form, offering arguments and marshalling evidence.
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICAL SKILLS:
ability to make discriminating use of a range of library and information resources in order to identify appropriate source material, compile bibliographies and inform research;
ability to show independence of thought, and critical self-awareness about one's own beliefs.
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS:
These include the ability to deal with complex issues systematically and creatively, the ability to engage in independent learning and the ability to communicate ideas, arguments, principles, theories and to develop arguments.