The aim of this module is to give students an experience of ‘research in progress.’ Normally, it will be an extended research workshop on a topic of current research interest to the tutor, and the module tutor may change depending on the current research activity of the staff in Philosophy. However, it could also be made up of two or even three shorter workshops built around different topics (for example, the work of different members of staff and/or a visiting speaker).

As an example, the module might address Michel Serres’ proposal that the social contract (a mainstay of political philosophy since the 17th century) be replaced with a ‘natural contract’ that recognises the natural world as a subject (or subjects) deserving of rights and representation in democratic government. Serres’ work intersects with environmental philosophy but includes a more far-reaching reflection on the sciences, law, and the emergence and sustainability of order in the material world.

The essay (Assessment Element 1) will provide evidence to evaluate students against Learning Outcomes 1, 2, and 3.

The discussion board contributions (Assessment Element 3) will primarily provide evidence to evaluate students against Learning Outcome 3.

1. Demonstrate advanced and in-depth knowledge concerning a particular topic within continental (European) philosophy. Knowledge and Understanding.

2. Demonstrate an ability to engage with current research in that topic, and to pursue work in the area that is contextually aware, employing critically reflective methods, and identifying and overcoming problems. Analysis, Problem Solving

3. Communicate difficult ideas clearly and in an appropriately organised manner. Communication.

Blackboard
Library Services

Karen Barad, Meeting the Universe Halfway: Quantum Physics and the Entanglement of Matter and Meaning (Duke University Press, 2007).

Jane Bennett, Vibrant Matter: a political ecology of things (Duke University Press, 2010)

Serenella Iovino, ‘Steps to a material ecocriticism. The literature about the ‘New Materialisms’ and its implications for ecocritical theory’, European Journal of Literature, Culture and the Environment Vol 3 (1) 2012, 134-145.

Jonathan Krell, ‘Michel Serres, Luc Ferry, and the Possibility of a Natural Contract’ in The Environment in French and Francophone Literature and Film Vol 39, 2012, 1-13.

Stephanie Posthumus, ‘Translating Ecocriticism: Dialoguing with Michel Serres’, Reconstruction: Studies in Contemporary Culture, Vol 7 (2), 2007.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau, The Social Contract

Michel Serres, The Natural Contract (Michigan University Press, 1995)

Michel Serres, The Times of Crisis (Bloomsbury, 2014)

Michel Serres, Branches (Bloomsbury, 2020)

The list above indicates the range of texts that may feature in one given version of the module, according to the topic on which it is based. It is not meant to be a recommended or required book list.

What is it like to do research in Philosophy? In this module you’ll join in a series of research workshops on a topic that your tutor is currently researching. You’ll be a part of work ‘in the making’ and will gain valuable experience in how to carry out research in Philosophy. The topic will vary according to reflect the interests and research activities of staff.