Faith and Reason (Distance Learning) (20 credits)
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| THEO4138 | Philosophy | 4 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- THEO4138
- School
- Philosophy
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
The module includes contributions from all the Department’s specialists in systematic and philosophical theology. Students will gain an understanding of the blending of faith and reason in patristic and high medieval theology, the separation of faith and reason in modernity, the nature of theology in relation to other disciplines, and the varieties of reason at play in contemporary theological, philosophical and cultural debates.
Target Students
Only available to postgraduate students in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies
Assessment
- 100% Assignment: 3000-4000 word essay
Assessed by end of designated period
Educational Aims
This module has three aims. First, it seeks to consolidate the material covered by students thus far in their studies and focus their attention on a core issue in systematic and philosophical theology: the relationship between faith and reason, and between philosophy and theology. Secondly, the module seeks to enhance students' knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the latest research in this area, particularly through an exposure to the research conducted by the Department's numerous systematic theologians. Finally, the module seeks to provide students with confidence in handling the latest publications in order to enhance their critical and analytical skills ahead of tackling a research dissertation.Learning Outcomes
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: demonstrate sound critical knowledge of the latest research in systematic and philosophical theology and the way in which that research appropriates abd utilises the christian theological and philosophical tradition: show a good understanding of current issues and the key areas currently requiring investigation; display a sound appreciation of the techniques of research in systematic and philosophical theology; demonstrate good understanding of different ways of construing the relationship between faith and reason, and theology and philosophy.
INTELLECTUAL SKILLS: ability to interpret and critically reflect upon difficult theological and philosophical ideas, texts and research agendas, combining independence of judgement with appropriate critical recognition of existing scholarship; ability to think critically, independently and in depth about theological and related philosophical 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 discrimintaing 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.