FIL2403 – Philosophy of Language
Course description
Schedule, syllabus and examination date
Course content
The course may be given in several variants, based on one or more of the following core areas in philosophy of language:
(1) Truth. What is truth? Is truth a genuine property that some sentences or utterances possess? If so, what type of property is it? Various theories of truth.
(2) Meaning. What is linguistic meaning? What is the relationship between truth and meaning?
(3) Thought, utterances and context. Speech act theory. Grice`s theory of implications.How does extralinguistic context affect our understanding and interpretation of utterances?
(4) Reference. How does language connect with reality? How should we understand the semantic relationship between singular terms and things? How are proper names, definite descriptions and indexicals related to objects in the world?
(5) Propositional attitudes and interpretation. How should we understand expressions for belief and other attitudes to propositional contents? How do we express our own, and how do we report others’ propositional attitudes?
Learning outcome
After having completed the course you are expected to:
- be able to demonstrate a thorough insight in problems of philosophy of language, and also be able to discuss different views critically in writing
- be able to give a precise and argumentative oral presentation of a central problem in philosophy of language
- be able to demonstrate an overview of differences, similarities and connections between different views within philosophy of language, and also be able to give critical assessments of the different views
Admission to the course
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Recommended previous knowledge
Overlapping courses
- 5 credits overlap with FIL2401.
- 5 credits overlap with FIL2402.
Teaching
12 double sessions with combined seminars and lectures. All students are expected to participate in an active manner.
The course has the following mandatory activities:
- Drafts of both of the essays that are to be submitted in the portfolio exam
Examination
A portfolio exam which consists of two essays, one of which should be 1500-2000 words and the other 2000-2500 words, footnotes and references not included.
The portfolio is to be submitted in Inspera.
Evaluation criteria fall 2018.
Language of examination
The examination text is given in English, and you submit your response in English.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
More about examinations at UiO
- Use of sources and citations
- Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
- Withdrawal from an exam
- Illness at exams / postponed exams
- Explanation of grades and appeals
- Resitting an exam
- Cheating/attempted cheating
You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.