Programme Guide. MA (Philosophy)

Transcription

1 Programme Guide MA (Philosophy) School of Interdisciplinary and Trans-disciplinary Studies Indira Gandhi National Open University Maidan Garhi, New Delhi

2 Education is a liberating force, and in our age it is also a democratising force, cutting across the barriers of caste and class, smoothing out inequalities imposed by birth and other circumstances. Indira Gandhi RECOGNITION IGNOU is a CENTRAL UNIVERSITY established by an Act of Parliament in 1985 (Act No. 50 of 1985). IGNOU Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates are recognised by all the members of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and are at par with Degrees/ Diplomas/Certificates of all Indian Universities/ Deemed Universities/Institutions vide UGC Circulars No. F.1-52/2000(CPP-II) dated 5th May, 2004,; D.O. No.F.1-25/03(CPP)-II) dated 28th July, 1993; F.1-8/ 92 (CPP) dated February 1992 & AIU Circular No. EV/B(449)/94/ dated January, PROGRAMME COORDINATOR Professor Gracious Thomas Coordinator: CBCI Chair, Block G: 114, IGNOU, New Delhi PRINT PRODUCTION Mr. B. Natrajan Deputy Registrar (Pub.) MPDD, IGNOU New Delhi Mr. S. Barman Asst. Registrar (Pub.) MPDD, IGNOU New Delhi Mr. B.L. Rewadia Section Officer (Pub.) MPDD, IGNOU New Delhi March, 2011 Indira Gandhi National Open University, 2011 All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form, by mimeograph or any other means, without permission in writing from the Indira Gandhi National Open University. Further information on the Indira Gandhi National Open University courses may be obtained from the University s office at Maidan Garhi, New Delhi or from IGNOU website www: ignou.ac.in Printed and published on behalf of the Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi by Director, SOITS, IGNOU Laser Composed by: Tessa Media & Computers, C206, A.F.E-II, New Delhi 2

3 CONTENTS Page No. 1. About the University 5 2. CBCI-IGNOU Chair 5 3. Programme of Study in Philosophy 6 4. Programme Structure for M.A. Philosophy 8 5. Fee Structure and Schedule of Payment Instructional System Medium of Instruction Evaluation Other Useful Information 36 3

4 4

5 1. ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) was established by an Act of Parliament in 1985 to achieve the following objectives: Democratizing higher education by taking it to the doorsteps of the learners. Providing access to high quality education to all those who seek it irrespective of age, region or formal qualifications. Offering need-based academic programmes by giving professional and vocational orientation to the courses. Promoting and developing distance education in India. Setting and maintaining standards in distance education in the country as an apex body for the purpose. Today, it serves the educational aspirations of about three million students in India and other 33 countries through the twenty one schools of study and a network of 60 regional centres, more than 3000 Learner Support Centres and around 52 overseas centres. The university offers over 300 Certificate, Diploma, Degree and Doctoral Programmes, comprising around 3000 courses, with a strength of about 400 faculty members and academic staff at the headquarters and regional centers and about 40,000 academic counsellors from conventional institutes of higher learning, professionals from various organizations, among others. 2. CBCI-IGNOU CHAIR The establishment of the Chair, with the signing of MoU between the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) and IGNOU in February 2000, facilitated the initiatives of IGNOU for launching several socially relevant programmes of study. The Chair was established with the following objectives: To address the needs of disadvantaged sections of the society through educational programmes, extension activities and research. To develop and launch socially relevant courses and programmes of study such as Social Work, HIV/AIDS, Family Life Education, Substance Abuse, Philosophy etc. To organize seminars on important socially relevant themes; To organize an Annual Mother Teresa Memorial Lecture; To institute awards/scholarships etc. for IGNOU students; To undertake any other activity that addresses the concerns of the disadvantaged sections of society. Since the signing of the MoU, several socially relevant courses and programmes of study were developed and launched which included a Certificate and Diploma in HIV and Family Education (CAFE/DAFE); Bachelor in Social Work (BSW); Post Graduate Diploma in Social Work (PGDSW) and Master in Social Work (MSW). The latest additions are the Bachelor and Master Degree Programmes in Philosophy (B.A. and M.A. Philosophy). 5

6 3. PROGRAMME OF STUDY IN PHILOSOPHY It is a fact that UGC has recognized philosophy as a discipline and it is being offered by several Universities across the country. The Government of India too has assigned special status to the discipline by establishing the Indian Council of Philosophical Research, and by including philosophy as a subject in UPSC and PSCs examinations. Objectives i) To provide opportunity to candidates in ODL System, pursue studies in the discipline of Philosophy. ii) iii) iv) To meet the growing demand from several institutions across the country to have the discipline of Philosophy in ODL System particularly to cater to those in-service to pursue studies in the subject. To provide opportunity to candidates from ODL System who desire to pursue studies in Philosophy so as to appear for civil service, UPSC, PSC and other competitive exams. To provide career prospects for students from ODL System in the discipline of Philosophy. v) To offer courses and programmes of study in Philosophy in par with UGC and Conventional Universities within the country and abroad. vi) To provide opportunity to students in ODL System who may prefer inter-disciplinary approach while pursuing undergraduate programmes by opting courses from the discipline of Philosophy. vii) To facilitate residential institutions involved in providing quality education in Philosophy to acquire university degrees. viii) To develop quality material in the discipline of Philosophy from IGNOU which are much sought after by students, teachers and institutions of higher education across the board. The Subject Philosophy: Its Nature and Importance Literally the word philosophy (Greek philosophia) means love of wisdom. It is described as search for knowledge, truth, wisdom, virtue and happiness. Philosophy as a discipline is universal, transcending cultures, religions and ethnic identities. Philosophy originates as the fruit of critical reflection on man, world and the Absolute and their mutual relationship. It gives human beings a comprehensive view of reality and their place in it. Every culture and nation has produced philosophies and philosophers. It is true of the ancient sages of India, the wise men of Greece, the learned people of the Middle East and elsewhere. Philosophy is an intellectual activity and has for its subject matter the concepts, theories and presuppositions present in various disciplines and in every day life. In this sense, Philosophy is a fundamental discipline. There are as many philosophies as there are peoples and cultures. Hence we can speak of, Indian philosophies, Asian philosophies; Western philosophies, Eastern philosophies; Ancient philosophy, Modern philosophy, contemporary philosophy; religious philosophies, materialist philosophies; philosophy of man, philosophy of religion, philosophy of morality, philosophy of nature, philosophy of science, philosophy of technology, philosophy of mind, philosophy of history, philosophy of culture, philosophy of knowledge; Islamic philosophy, Jewish philosophy, Christian philosophy, Hindu philosophy, Buddhist philosophy, Jaina philosophy, Tribal philosophy, etc. 6

7 UGC, Indian Universities, Indian Council of Philosophical Research One of the earliest thought-tradition known to humanity is produced in India, and thus she has a history of promoting philosophy over millennia. India has produced some of the eminent philosophers of international standing and intricate systems of philosophical thought which can stand in par with any philosophies of the world. In the same way, the various cultures of the world have produced philosophies. Hence today the term philosophy stands for the collective wisdom of man over the centuries. Recognizing the importance of this discipline, many Indian universities have introduced Philosophy as a subject for study and research. Today philosophy occupies a pride of place in many universities of India, and the UGC has endorsed the same by promoting it in as many universities and centres of learning in the country as possible. We also have in India a council, the Indian Council of Philosophical Research, which promotes philosophical research. The journal Indian Philosophical Quarterly is published in three languages, namely, English, Marathi and Hindi. There are also many standard foreign philosophical journals that arrive in the universities and colleges of India which deal with Philosophy, not to speak of the millions of books on philosophy that circulate in the Indian centers of learning, and the thousands of academicians and researchers who dedicate their life to the cause of philosophy Possible Beneficiaries of the Course The M.A. Philosophy programme through distance education will have many beneficiaries, especially among in-service people, young students and those interested in pursuing the programme through convergence scheme. There are many young people in India who have a natural inclination to speculation and critical and abstract thinking. But often such people are deprived of opportunities to do specialization in philosophy because in the country not all university colleges offer philosophy as a subject. Then there are others who may prefer an inter-disciplinary approach to their studies and would like to have philosophy as one of the elective subjects. Today there is an increasing trend in many universities to make courses inter-disciplinary. In such a context, a subject like philosophy in the curriculum of IGNOU would offer many students an additional optional subject to choose from. Then there are other students who would like to do higher education in foreign universities. In many foreign centres of learning, Philosophy is a much appreciated discipline. Hence for those seeking admission in foreign universities, doing a course in philosophy in India would give them an added advantage over the others who may not have philosophy as a subject. Above all, IGNOU would be making a unique contribution by developing quality materials on the subject. Career Prospects for Students The study of philosophy can enhance career prospects for students. Obviously in many academic centres and universities those specialized in philosophy can get employment as teachers and researchers. In addition to this, knowledge of philosophy is an added advantage for those preparing for competitive examinations, especially for UPSC and PSC Examinations. Further, the study of philosophy trains the mind for better logical thinking, mental discipline, ability for analysis and synthesis, critical reflection on social and political realities. A subject like philosophy would stand in good stead when seeking jobs as lawyers, in knowledge industry, strategic planning, policy making, defence departments, politics, diplomatic service, etc. Experiences have shown that in general, those who have done specialized studies in philosophy are mentally more alert and can understand things better and analyze problems more quickly and accurately than those who do not have such a background. Thus, the study of philosophy can enhance one s career prospects. 7

8 Other Possible Advantages of the Course In offering Philosophy in distance education has also many other advantages. We mention below some of them. A Means to Enhance the General Culture of the People The study of philosophy can enhance the general culture of the people. Philosophy is a subject which trains people to think and reflect on the realities of the world. In this sense it provides persons with a methodology to analyze things that affect their life and society, and discover their causes and search for possible solutions. When one studies philosophy, one will also encounter the wisdom of the people over the centuries and their ways of solving the problems of life. A Means for Promoting National Integration India is land of ethnic, religious and cultural complexity. Consequently we encounter difficulties in national integration and peaceful co-existence because of the differences. Every ethic group, culture and religion has a worldview of its own. The behaviour of a particular group of people is rooted in their philosophy of life. The study of philosophy helps one to know the worldviews, thinking patterns, religious beliefs and cultural traits of others and such knowledge can lead to better understanding and mutual appreciation of each other. It can also remove ignorance, prejudices, religious and cultural fanaticism and promote national integration and peaceful co-existence. A Means to Promote Social Transformation The study of philosophy can lead to social transformation. In Indian society there are many areas that need to undergo change in order to build a better nation, and to ensure social equality, human dignity and human rights for the citizens. Social transformation is the result of critical reflection accompanied by appropriate interventions. Ultimately ideas change persons and societies. Philosophy teaches people the art of critical refection on man, society and its value systems. No society is perfect. Every society is in need of change and not to undergo change means to stagnate. Change is initiated first in the mind through critical reflection, and this means to philosophize, whether one is conscious of it or not. Hence beneath every case of social transformation there is a philosophy of life and a philosophical thought that initiated the process. In this sense, the study of philosophy has many positive social effects. 4. PROGRAMME STRUCTURE FOR M.A. PHILOSOPHY The University follows the credit system for its Master s Degree Programme. Each credit amounts to 30 hours of study comprising all learning activities. Thus, a four credit course involves 120 study hours and an eight credit course involves 240 study hours. To successfully complete this programme, you will have to earn 64 credits over a period of 2 to 5 years depending on your convenience. However, you will not be allowed to earn more than 32 credits in a year. The Master s Programme in Philosophy has the following major components: 1) Compulsory Courses 16 credits 2) Elective Courses 48 credits TOTAL 64 credits 8

9 M.A. Philosophy (MAPY): Year wise Distribution of Courses First Year Credits MPY MPYE -001 MPYE -002 MPYE -003 MPYE -004 MPYE -005 MPYE -006 MPYE -007 MGP Indian Philosophy (8 credits) (Compulsory) Logic (4 credits) (Elective) Ethics (4 credits) (Elective) Epistemology (4 credits) (elective) Philosophy of Human Person (4 credits) (Elective) World Religions (4 credits) (Elective) Dalit Philosophy (4 credits) (Elective) Research Methodology in Philosophy (4 Credits) (Elective) Introduction to Peace and Conflict Resolution (4 credits) (Elective) Choose any six electives Second Year Credits MPY Western Philosophy (8 credits) (Compulsory) MPYE MPYE MPYE MPYE MPYE MPYE MPYE MPYE MPYE Metaphysics (4 credits) (Elective) Philosophy of Science and Cosmology (4 credits) (Elective) Philosophy of Religion (4 credits) (Elective) Philosophy of Art (Aesthetics) (4 Credits) (Elective) Tribal Philosophy (4 credits) (Elective) Philosophy of Technology (4 credits) (Elective) Philosophy of Mind (4 credits) (Elective) Gandhian Philosophy (4 credits) (Elective) Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo (4 credits) (Elective) MPYP Dissertation/Project work (4 credits) (Elective) Choose any six electives 9

10 MPY -001: INDIAN PHILOSOPHY First Year (8 credits) Indian philosophy is expressed through a rich variety of thoughts and practices that have developed over more than three thousand years. There is no single Indian philosophy, but rather a plurality of ways of understanding and relating to Reality from a stock of widely held ideas reflected in the Vedas and the Upanishads, and particularly in the classical systems of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Philosophy becomes thematic at various levels and in different contexts, in debates concerning the status of 14 certain concepts as the soul, God, substances, universals, time, change, permanence/ impermanence, one and many, etc. This Course helps a student to understand the different aspects and systems of Indian Philosophy in its long formation. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 INTRODUCTION TO INDIAN PHILOSOPHY Nature of Philosophy and the Characteristics of Indian Philosophy Introduction to Vedas and Upanishads Introduction to Thirukkural Introduction to Epics, Puranas and Bhagavadgita HETERODOX SYSTEMS Carvaka Buddhism -1 Buddhism -2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 Jainism ORTHODOX SYSTEMS-1 Nyaya-Vaiseshika Samkhya Yoga Mimamsa ORTHODOX SYSTEMS-2 Advaita Vedanta Visistadvaita Vedanta Dvaita Vedanta Saivism and Vaishnavism BLOCK 5: INDIAN SYSTEMATIC PHILOSOPHY Logic and Epistemology Metaphysics Ethics Aesthetics 10

11 BLOCK 6 CONTEMPORARY INDIAN PHILOSOPHY Swami Vivekananda and Muhammad Iqbal Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore Aurobindo and S. Radhakrishnan B. R. Ambedkar and R. Panikkar MPYE -001: LOGIC (4 credits) Logic is the systematic study of the general structures of sound reasoning and valid arguments. It is the study of the methods and principles used to distinguish good (correct) from the bad (incorrect) reasoning. This does not mean that only a student of logic can reason well or correctly. To say so would imply that to run well one requires studying physics and physiology. However it is true that a person who has studied logic is more likely to reason correctly than one who has never thought about the general principles involved in the activity. There are several reasons for that. First, the proper study of logic will enable the student to reason well, as practice can make one perfect. Second, the study of logic gives attention to the analysis of fallacies which are common and finds often natural mistakes in reasoning. Finally, the study of logic will give the students techniques and methods for testing the correctness of different kinds of reasoning. Logic will provide us with criteria to correct reasoning with which we can test arguments for their correctness. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 Unit 5 CLASSICAL LOGIC Types of Categorical Propositions A, E, I, O and Square of Opposition Categorical Syllogism Figure, Mood and the Possible Types of Syllogisms Validity, Invalidity and List of Valid Syllogisms SENTENTIAL LOGIC 1: INTRODUCTION Introduction to the Form of Arguments in Modern Logic Conjunction, Disjunction, Conditional and Biconditional Rules of Inference and the Nature of Validity of Arguments Fallacies SENTENTIAL LOGIC 2: PROVING VALIDITY Proving Validity Using Rules of Inference Conditional Proof Indirect Proof Proving Invalidity PREDICATE LOGIC Introducing the Quantifiers All and Some and their Symbolic Representation Rules of Universal Instantiation, Universal Generalization, Existential Generalization Proofs of Validity Proving Invalidity Applications of Symbolic Logic 11

12 MPYE -002: ETHICS (4 credits) The word ethics is derived from the Greek word ethos, which means custom, a habitual way of acting, character etc. So, ethics is the science of character, habits of activity or conduct of human being. It is also known as Moral philosophy as it studies the principles or standards of human conduct. Human beings do not live and act at random. They follow certain patterns. These are adopted spontaneously, and in general these prototypes stem from models and attitudes adopted as historical and cultural factors. These are not mere charters as directives for life, but the shaping of one s life in accordance with certain mores/customs. The term mores in Latin means customs and manners and moral in moral philosophy is derived from this very term mores. Ethics is the science of morals or that branch of philosophy which is concerned with human character and conduct. An action was considered to be morally good or bad if it was in line with or against the customs and traditions of the particular era or society. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 4 BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS Nature and Scope of Ethics Challenges and Importance of Ethics Ethics in the History of Indian Philosophy Ethics in the History of Western Philosophy ETHICAL FOUNDATIONS Human Values (sharing, caring, bearing, cooperation, commitment, etc) Human Virtues (Honesty, courage, patience, humility, obedience, love, etc.) Human Rights Human Duties APPLIED ETHICS International Ethics Bioethics Environmental Ethics Media Ethics CURRENT ETHICAL DEBATES Natural Moral Law Deontology and Moral Responsibility Discourse Ethics Social Institutions MPYE -003: EPISTEMOLOGY (4 credits) The word epistemology comes from the Greek word, episteme meaning knowledge and logos meaning science or systematic way of studying. The term was first used in 1854 by J.F. Ferrier, who distinguished the two main branches of philosophy as Ontology and Epistemology. Epistemology as a distinct science is a recent development, beginning in the Modern period of philosophy with Descartes, and gaining prominence with the contemporary philosopher, Husserl ( ). It is a branch of philosophy that deals with the problem of knowledge that is, it investigates the origin, 12

13 structure, methods and the validity of knowledge. It answers the question, How do we know? This is the philosophy of knowledge concerned with such questions as; is knowledge of anything really possible, is our knowledge certain, how do we get our knowledge? What exactly is knowledge about, etc. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION Nature and Scope of Epistemology Definition of knowledge and its basic assumptions Theories of Error and Truth: Indian Theories of Error and Truth: Western JUSTIFICATION OF KNOWLEDGE Pramanas I (Perception) Pramanas -II Justification: Classical Approach Justification: Modern Approach HERMENEUTICS Introduction to Hermeneutics Language-games and Paradigms The Linguistic Turn and Epistemic Justification Indian Hermeneutics POST-HERMENEUTIC EPISTEMOLOGY Semantic Holism and Radical Interpretation Epistemic Holism and Theory Laden Observations Popperian Method and Naturalized Epistemology Perception Naturalized MPYE -004: PHILOSOPHY OF HUMAN PERSON (4 credits) In philosophical language, the expression Philosophical Anthropology has come into use only in recent decades. It was with Rene Descartes ( ) with the affirmation of the anthropocentric perspective, that the human person became the centre and the focal point of philosophy. The centre of concern in modern and contemporary philosophy is the human individual and his/her problems. Human is the main concern of our time. We live in an anthropocentric world, where human person is considered as the centre and summit and measure of everything. Philosophical Anthropology deals with those vital and significant questions that touch our own very existence Who am I? Why am I in this world? Where am I going?, etc. BLOCK 1 GENERAL INTRODUCTION Introduction to the Philosophy of Human Person Philosophy of Human Person and Other Philosophical Disciplines Western Philosophical Views on Human Person Indian Philosophical Views on Human Person 13

14 Block 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 Human Existence and Freedom Origin and Development of Human Human as Being in the World Human as Interdependent Human as Free HUMAN RELATIONALITY Human Need for Self-actualization Human s Relation to the Rest of the Universe Foundations of Interpersonal Relationship Relationality: Recent Scientific Discoveries HUMAN DESTINY Personal Identity and Self Philosophical Understanding of Death Nihilistic and Positive Views on Life after Death Philosophical Reflections on Rebirth and Resurrection MPYE -005: WORLD RELIGIONS (4 credits) Diversity is a lived experience. In our world and particularly in India, we experience diversity of religions, cultures, world-views, languages and customs. India is not only a melting pot of diverse religions but place of mutual interaction, dialogue and appreciation of everything plural that forms the fabric of our country. In this course, we focus our attention on the experience of diversity of religions in our world and in our country and try to understand how we can respond to this dynamic scenario that invites a responsible and creative approach. Our response is based on the responses of many enlightened seers and thinkers who have raised the question of plurality of religions and attempted to present their positions in the face of diverse and often seemingly contradictory religions. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 JAINISM AND BUDDHISM Introduction to Jainism Philosophy of Jainism Introduction to Buddhism Philosophy of Buddhism HINDUISM AND SIKHISM Introduction to Hinduism Philosophy of Hinduism Introduction to Sikhism Philosophy of Sikhism 14

15 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 JUDAISM AND CHRISTIANITY Introduction to Judaism Philosophy of Judaism Introduction to Christianity Philosophy of Christianity ISLAM AND OTHER RELIGIONS Introduction to Islam Philosophy of Islam Zoroastrianism & Taoism Confucianism & Shintoism MPYE -006: DALIT PHILOSOPHY (4 credits) Every society has its own philosophy or world-view which is given expression in a unique way. The expression is two-fold: the act of expression and what is expressed; the act of expression is visible but what is expressed is invisible. The invisibles are the meanings and values the people live by. The tribals and dalits cherish and reveal their philosophy in their cultural expressions. For instance, as most of them are agriculturalists, living in the lap of nature, they have a very practical philosophy of life. To them life is a long celebration, communitarian, and totally dependent on the Supreme Being. This is what they express through their festivals, rituals, songs and dances. These suggest the philosophy that work, however rewarding, is not the highest end of life but must contribute to personal human fulfillment. The course on Dalit Philosophy is designed to study these and similar philosophical presuppositions and implications present in their societies. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 HISTORICO-SOCIAL BASIS OF DALIT PHILOSOPHY Historical Roots of the Dalits Dalit Folklore and Cultural Expressions Social Problems of Dalits Impact of Scientific Culture and Globalization on the Dalits RELIGIOUS PHILOSOPHY OF DALITS Belief Systems and Rituals among Dalits Eschatological Views of the Dalits Impact of World Religions on Dalits Future of Dalit Religious Philosophy PHILOSOPHY AS WORLD-VIEW AND OUTLOOK Dalit World-View and Philosophy of Life Human Values and Moral Outlook of the Dalits Dalit Aesthetic Outlook Dalit Political and Economic Outlook 15

16 BLOCK 4 DALIT PHILOSOPHERS OF INDIA Ancient Dalit Philosophers Medieval Dalit Philosophers Modern Dalit Philosophers Contemporary Dalit Philosophers MPYE-007: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY IN PHILOSOPHY (4 Credits) A method is the systematic or patterned way of doing an activity and Philosophical method or philosophical methodology is the study of how to do philosophy or answer philosophical questions. A common view among philosophers is that philosophy is distinguished by the methods that philosophers follow in tackling philosophical questions. Of course, there is not just one method that philosophers use to answer philosophical questions. Philosophy, it has been said, begins in wonder and scientific research relies on the application of the scientific method for harnessing this curiosity. The course on research methodology in philosophy gives a detailed look at the different methods applied by philosophers of different ages in their pursuit of unveiling the face of reality. It also prepares the students for further research work by introducing them to scientific research methodologies. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 BASICS OF RESEARCH IN PHILOSOPHY Introduction to Research in General Original Unity of Philosophy and Science Evolution of the Distinct Methods of Science Relation of Scientific and Philosophical Methods EARLIER METHODS IN PHILOSOPHY Dialectical Method Rationalist Method Empiricist Method Critical Method RECENT METHODS IN PHILOSOPHY Phenomenological Method: Indian and Western Analytical Method: Indian and Western Hermeneutical Method: Indian and Western Deconstructive Method METHODOLOGY OF PREPARING RESEARCH PAPER Method of Bibliography Method of Footnotes Method of Notes-taking Method of Thesis Proposal and Presentation 16

17 MGP 005: INTRODUCTION TO PEACE AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION (4 CREDITS) The course is aimed at helping students understand some of the basic concepts and principles of peace studies. It purports to familiarize students with the central issues of and theories associated with conflicts, reduction and resolution of conflicts and achieving peace. Also, it seeks to develop the ability of students to understand how the different approaches and explanatory factors at different levels are combined in an analysis of conflict and peace. In defining the contours of peace studies, it may be said that it is an approach to deal with prevention, de-escalation and resolution of conflicts by peaceful means. In other words, resolution of conflicts attempts to minimize violence in a conflict, overcome antagonisms between adversaries and find outcomes and settlements acceptable to all and which are enduring. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 Unit 5 Unit 6 Unit 7 Unit 8 BLOCK 3 Unit BLOCK UNDERSTANDING PEACE What is Peace? Peace, Wellbeing and Justice Peace and Participatory Democracy Culture of Peace NATURE AND CAUSES OF CONFLICT Types and Levels of Conflict Sources of Conflict: Perspectives Social Injustice Economic Inequality and Exploitation METHODS OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION Western and Eastern Perspectives Coercive Methods Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR Gandhian Way TOWARDS DURABLE PEACE Comprehensive Human Development Peace Education Religious Harmony Peace Movements 17

18 MPY-002: WESTERN PHILOSOPHY Second Year (8 credits) Ancient Western Philosophy is also known as Greco-Roman Philosophy or Greek philosophy, because it started in Greece, or rather with the proto-greek people. Ancient Western Philosophy is also known as Greek Miracle. This Maritime colonial power began to flower as a centre of thought and creativity that it became a mark of all future thinking. Ancient is a relative term. Usually it refers to things, events, persons, time which are removed from as in the past. Ancient Western Philosophy refers to the pioneers, the first to go and venture in a new field or territory. They were daring thinkers, who were ready to look at problems afresh, searching for new solutions. The Medieval Philosophy discussed the relation of faith to reason, the existence and unity of God, the object of theology and Metaphysics, and the problems of knowledge, of universals, and of individuation. The chief philosophical reflection was around human s relationship with other human beings, the world, and God. It was a period of tension between philosophy and theology of major monotheistic religions. During this era philosophy became a system, with well-established schools. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION TO WESTERN PHILOSOPHY Characteristics of Western Philosophy Divisions of Western Philosophy Major Issues of Western Philosophy Major Thinkers of Western Philosophy ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHY Pre-Socratic Philosophers Socrates Plato Aristotle MEDIEVAL PHILOSOPHY Augustine Aquinas Dun Scotus Jewish and Islamic Philosophers MODERN PHILOSOPHY Rationalism Empiricism Immanuel Kant G.W. Hegel 18

19 BLOCK 5 CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHY-1 Masters of Suspicion (Marx, Nietzsche and Freud) Pragmatism Process Philosophy Philosophy of Language BLOCK 6 CONTEMPORARY TRENDS -2 Phenomenology Existentialism Hermeneutics and Post-modernism Neo-scholasticism and Feminism MPYE -008: METAPHYSICS (4 Credits) The word meta in Greek means above, after or beyond; this is the study of the nature of things above/ after/beyond physics. Aristotle s papers included his works on physics and his treatises on ultimate reality. Since these untitled treatises of Aristotle were placed at the end of his famous work ta phusika (The Physics) people began to call them meta ta phusika (The Metaphysics). It is a branch of philosophy, which studies realities beyond physical things. Metaphysics is therefore after physics in so far as it goes beyond the physical nature of things to the being of things. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 3 INTRODUCTION TO METAPHYSICS Etymology, Definition and Scope Fundamental Notions and Principles Brief History of Western Metaphysics Brief History of Indian Metaphysics STRUCTURE OF FINITE BEING Being and Essence Substance and Accidents Matter and Form Act and Potency RELATION OF BEING AND BEINGS Being and Relation Being and Causality Being and Analogy Being and the Problem of One and Many 19

20 BLOCK 4 NOTION OF BEING Categorial Notion of Being (Being and Categories) Agapeic Notion of Being (Being and Agape) Transcendental Notion of Being (Being and Transcendentals) Absolute Notion of Being (Being and Absolute) MPYE -009: PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE AND COSMOLOGY (4 credits) This course includes the study of history of science, philosophy of science and scientific cosmology. The course surveys how science from its inception in the pre-socratic period grew up to become the highly developed and sophisticated form of human knowledge today. Philosophy of science concentrates on the modern theories of relativity and quantum mechanics in order to bring out their philosophical implications. Finally, scientific cosmology focuses on the origin, development, nature and destiny of the universe in the light of contemporary scientific theories. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 Unit 5 BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION Science and Philosophy, Science and Philosophy of Science, Philosophy of Science and Other Disciplines Introduction to Cosmology History of Cosmology SCHOOLS OF CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE Logical Positivism Historicism Historical Realism Key Issues in Philosophy of Science: Explanation, observation etc. CONTEMPORARY COSMOLOGICAL THEORIES Theories of Relativity Quantum Mechanics Uncertainty Principle Origin and End of the Universe SPECIAL ISSUES IN CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE AND COSMOLOGY Space and Time Expanding Universe World Models Science and Religion 20

21 MPYE -010: PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION (4 credits) It is a philosophical thinking or reflection on religion by applying the philosophical method. It takes up basic problems relating to God / Absolute. It also speculates about the origin, nature and function of religion. The task of Philosophy of Religion is to explain as best as it can, in its own language and to the rational and intellectual parts of human the beliefs, truths, the experience and the laws of religion. When Philosophy of Religion studies different religions, it finds that there is a fundamental unity that lies at the root of every religion with regard to three matters: faith in an Absolute Being of at least some kind, belief in the immortality of the soul, and the fundamental principles of morality. The course can help a person to respect other religions than one s own. Philosophy of Religion is an antidote to all kinds of dogmatism, fanaticism, irrationalism and superstitions in religions, which have been responsible for much abuse of its name. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION Definition and Scope of Philosophy of Religion Importance of the Philosophy of Religion Philosophy of Religion and Other Disciplines History of Philosophy of Religion FOUNDATIONS OF RELIGION Religious Experience Religious Language Religious Structures and Institutions Religious Tolerance ATHEISM/A-THEISM Introduction to Atheism / A-theism Deism and Agnosticism Materialism and Marxism Problem of Evil THEISM Introduction to Theism Arguments for the Existence of God Prominent Theistic Philosophers of India Prominent Theistic Philosophers of the West 21

22 MPYE 011: PHILOSOPHY OF ART (AESTHETICS) (4 Credits) Aesthetics or the philosophy of art refers to the sensory contemplation or appreciation of an object. Aesthetics, as a branch of philosophy, not only speaks about art and to produce judgments about the art works, but also gives a definition of what art is. Art is an autonomous entity for philosophy as it deals with the senses and art is as such free of any moral or political purpose. Aesthetics, a subdiscipline of axiology, is a critical reflection on art, culture and nature and studies new ways of seeing and of perceiving the world. This course gives a detailed expression of the understanding of art in the east and west and also takes a look at the applicability of this learning. BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION Philosophy of Art Rasa Definition, Nature and Scope Aesthetics Definition, Nature and Scope Aesthete Object INDIAN AESTHETICS Bharata on Rasa Theories of Rasa Indian Aestheticians Abhinavagupta s Philosophy of Rasa WESTERN AESTHETICS Theory of Aesthetics - Ancient Theory of Aesthetics - Medieval Theory of Aesthetics - Modern Theory of Aesthetics Post-modern AESTHETICS ITS APPLICATION Ontology of Art Applied Rasa Indian Perspective Applied Aesthetic Western Perspective Art Experience MPYE 012: TRIBAL PHILOSOPHY (4 credits) The unpolluted concepts of nature and life of men living with the nature seem original and practical. There are particular philosophies running through the tribal congregations, which are the foundations of their religious and political practices. It is also important to know about their world view as they are directly related to nature. This course will take the students through the various aspects of the tribal thoughts, the foundations of tribal religions and culture. 22

23 BLOCK 1 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 HISTORICO-SOCIAL BASIS OF TRIBAL PHILOSOPHY Historical Roots of the Tribals Tribal Folklore and Cultural Expressions Social Organization of Tribals Impact of Scientific Culture and Globalization on the Tribals PHILOSOPHY AS WORLD-VIEW AND OUTLOOK Tribal World-View and Philosophy of Life Human Values and Moral Outlook of the Tribals Tribal Aesthetic Outlook Tribal Cosmogonies and Cosmologies POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC PHILOSOPHY Agrarian / Pastoral Life of Tribals Displacement and Migration of Tribals Resistance and Revolutions against Foreign Powers Identity Crisis and Solutions RELIGIOUS PHILOSOPHY Belief Systems and Rituals among Tribals Eschatological Views of the Tribals Tribal Religion/s vis-à-vis Impact of Other Religions Future of Tribal Religion/s MPYE-013: PHILOSOPHY OF TECHNOLOGY (4 credits) It is largely by technology that contemporary society hangs together. It is hugely important not only as an economic force but also as a cultural force. During the last two centuries, much philosophy of technology has been concerned with the impact of technology on society. The new development in science applications led to philosophy of technology, which seeks continuity with the philosophy of science rather than social science and the humanities. This course will give students the much desired opening to current scientific debates and areas of philosophical problems. BLOCK 1 REALITY: CHAOS THEORY AND NANOTECHNOLOGY Introduction to Theory of Chaos Fractals and Roughness of Reality Nanotechnology: Basic Ideas and Applications Nature of Nature: Philosophical Implications 23

24 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 LIFE: GENETICS AND HUMAN GENOME PROJECT Introduction and Overview of the Course Genetics and Stem Cell Research Basics of Human Genome Project Ethical, Legal and Social Implications CONSCIOUSNESS: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND NEUROTHEOLOGY Artificial Intelligence: Key Notions Philosophical Implications Neurological Studies and Consciousness Neurotheology: Philosophical Implications DEATH AND PHYSICAL IMMORTALITY Extending Physical Life Indefinitely: Scientific Techniques Overcoming Death: Philosophical Reflections Death: A Philosophical Overview Collective Human Extension or Cosmic Extinction MPYE -014: PHILOSOPHY OF MIND (4 credits) The mind-body problem, i.e. the relationship of the mind to the body, is seen to be the central issue in philosophy of mind, although there are other issues concerning the nature of the mind that do not involve its relation to the physical body. The different conceptual approaches have been particularly influential in the sciences, especially in the fields of sociobiology, computer science, evolutionary psychology and the various neurosciences. Continued neuroscientific progress has helped to clarify some of the related issues. However, they are far from having been resolved, and modern philosophers of mind continue to ask how the subjective qualities and the intentionality of mental states and properties can be explained in naturalistic terms. This course takes a dive into the whole problem, the different approaches taken towards them and will lead the students through philosophy s most recent engagement with science in going through the developments in neuroscience and artificial intelligence. BLOCK 1 INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY OF MIND Definition, Scope and Importance of Philosophy of Mind Mind and Other Disciplines Mind and Animals Mind and Computers 24

25 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 MIND AND BODY IN THE HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY: WESTERN AND INDIAN Mind and Body in Ancient Philosophy Mind and Body in Medieval Philosophy Mind and Body in Modern Philosophy Mind and Body in Contemporary Philosophy EXPRESSIONS OF MIND AND BRAIN: INDIAN AND WESTERN Mind and Perceptions Mind and Dreams Mind and Emotions Mind and Language OPERATIONS OF THE MIND AND ITS DESTINY Remembering Understanding Willing Survival of the Mind after Death MPYE-0015: GANDHIAN PHILOSOPHY (4 Credits) Gandhian philosophy is derived from Gandhi s basic vision of life and his commitment. Truth is at the centre of his basic quest for knowledge (epistemologically), of his religious and metaphysical quest (ontological truth) and of his quest for a good life (moral truth). The quest to know Truth is an ever unfinished quest and life is a continuous experiment with Truth. Synthesizing two models of God - theistic God and impersonal Absolute, Gandhi speaks of God both as personal and as absolute Truth. In his philosophy of religion Gandhi validates all religions as equal paths to truth and calls for more positive love and respect towards all than just religious tolerance. Anthropological notion of Gandhi guides the humans to realize themselves to be what they are and to strive towards life of perfection in the material world. Ethical and political teachings of Gandhi on Ahimsa, Satyagraha, Swarajya and Sarvodaya are from his life of conviction and commitment towards personal integrity and political freedom. Social philosophy of Gandhi focuses on the overall development of the society with egalitarian outlook. The course aims at bringing out the contemporary relevance and significance of Gandhian philosophy besides delineating its fundamental tenets. BLOCK 1 INTRODUCTION TO GANDHIAN PHILOSOPHY Context and Emergence of Gandhian Philosophy Metaphysical Teachings of Gandhi Gandhian Understanding of Man Ethical Teachings of Gandhi 25

26 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 GANDHIAN PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION Gandhian Concept of God Role of Reason and Faith Religious Experience and Ashram life Religious Tolerance and Religious Harmony GANDHIAN SOCIO-POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY Ahimsa & Satyagraha Swarajya & Swadeshi Sarvodaya Caste and Social Order RELEVANCE OF GANDHIAN PHILOSOPHY Relevance of Non-Violence Holistic Vision of Life Social Egalitarianism and Gandhi Towards Peace and Harmony MPYE-0016: PHILOSOPHY OF SRI AUROBINDO (4 Credits) Interactions of science and technology with religion and culture, globalization of economy and cross cultural communications have facilitated the contemporary world to appreciate the diversity of faiths, cultures and value systems. Such a new force enables the individuals to discover the inner dimensions of human personality towards a rather higher state of consciousness. Sri Aurobindo s thoughts provide the philosophic base for a more synthetic approach to life and activities. Having undergone a deep spiritual transformation Sri Aurobindo abandoned political nationalism and devoted his life to the quest for the Absolute. His thoughts centered on the experience of the fundamental unity of being which is basic to spiritual experience. His integral vision of reality with the synthetic approach to life has a potentiality to dissimilate into the various fields and trends of present society in order to fashion the future destiny of humanity on earth. The course aims at displaying the essential thought of Sri Aurobindo and spelling out its relevance in the contemporary world. BLOCK 1 INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY OF AUROBINDO Personality, Vision and Work of Aurobindo Sri Aurobindo on Indian Scriptures Spiritual Thought in Indian Philosophy Integral World-View 26

27 BLOCK 2 BLOCK 3 BLOCK 4 INTEGRAL VISION OF REALITY Basic Unity of Reality Synthesis of Spirit and Matter Evolution and Involution Integral Vedanta AUROBINDO S PHILOSOPHY OF HUMAN BEING Theories of Existence Man (Jivatman) and his nature Knowledge and Ignorance Interpretation of Tat-tvam-asi SIGNIFICANCE OF AUROBINDO S PHILOSOPHY The Divine Life and Integral (Purna) Yoga Transpersonal Psychology: Evolution of Consciousness Conception of Educational Philosophy Towards Human Unity MPYP-001: DISSERTATION / PROJECT WORK 27 (4 Credits) The project work or dissertation aims at making the student philosophize in the context at the end of their post graduate studies. Using the research method the student works independently with his or her guide who provides necessary guidance for the proposed project. In presenting their ideas through the project or research paper the student works out on a particular theme with a review of the relevant materials on the research topic. The project work prepares the student with necessary research skills for the further research in the M. Phil and Ph. D levels. The student submits a completed draft of the dissertation to the coordinator for evaluation. The research work should represent a significant contribution to the field, and not merely restate the writings and ideas of other authors. The dissertation must be an original work demonstrating the candidate s ability to do independent research in the selected area/topic covering vast existing primary sources and other secondary literature relevant to the field of specialisation. The students will contact the Study Centre Coordinator to provide him/her with a supervisor. Usually, one of the Academic Councilors of Philosophy will guide him/her as supervisor. The same supervisor will approve the synopsis (proposal), guide through the preparation and certify the work done. While binding the final thesis, the original proposal approved by the supervisor must be included. The complete project certified by the supervisor must be mailed to the Registrar, SED, IGNOU, New Delhi Ensure that you keep an additional copy of the dissertation with you. SCHEME OF STUDY In order to enable you to complete Master s Programme within the minimum period of two years, you are allowed to take 32 credits worth of courses in each year. There is a compulsory course in first and second year each. There should be six electives (24 credits) chosen from a total of 28 credits for each year. The first appearance for the exams would be eleven months after taking the admission. Subsequently, every six month you can reappear for courses, if not cleared in the previous attempt.

28 Year-wise Scheme of Study Year of Study Compulsory Course Elective Courses Total Credits First Year 8 credits 24 credits 32 Credits Second Year 8 credits 24 credits 32 credits Total 16 credits 48 credits 64 credits Elective Courses You are required to take courses worth 48 credits as electives from the optional papers mentioned above during the two year programme depending on your interest. Admission in 2nd year After the first year, whether you pass/appear in the first year examination or not, you can seek admission for the second year by submitting the course registration form with requisite programme fee within the re-registration time-schedule as notified by the university. Note: Even if the university does not send any communication for re-registration in 2nd year, you are advised to submit the Registration form by the prescribed date. Decide Your Time Schedule The University offers a lot of flexibility and openness in the courses and duration for the completion of programs. You should take full advantage of this flexibility. As indicated earlier you can finish this program in 2 years if you clear 32 credits of courses each year. If you are not able to complete it within this period, you can take a maximum of 5 years to complete it. It would be better if you plan it in a systematic way. For first two years you will receive study materials and assignments according to your options but it is up to you to decide which courses you would like to complete in a particular year. Completion of a course would involve studying the course, completing the assignments and obtaining pass marks in both assignments and term end examination. If you are busy elsewhere and not able to fully devote yourself to the programme, you should fix your targets every year. If you feel that instead of 32 credits you would like to complete only 24 or 16 credits, plan it from the beginning of the year, study only those courses, do the assignments for them and appear for term end examination. Carry over the rest to next year. Again next year, decide your goals for that year. Whenever you decide to do the previous year s course, ask for fresh assignments in the beginning of the year, and submit them according to the schedule and appear in the term end examination. Through proper planning you can finish this programme according to your convenience. 5. FEE STRUCTURE AND SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT The programme fee is Rs.3700/- for first year, including Rs.100/- for registration. The fee for the second year is Rs.3600/-. The fee should be paid along with the filled in application form, as per schedule without waiting for any communication from the University. The University can revise the programme fee and revised fee shall be payable by you as per schedule of payment notified by the university. The programme fee should be paid by means of demand draft drawn in favour of IGNOU. Please write your name (in Capitals) and programme code and period for which fee is paid at the back of your demand draft to ensure proper credit to your fee account. Timely payment of programme fees is the responsibility of the student. Students are expected to remit fee as early as possible without waiting for the last date. Non-payment of fee results in discontinuation of the dispatch of study material. Such students will not be permitted to write the 28