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Epistemology I

Key information

  • Module code:

    4AANB007

  • Level:

    4

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

The module provides a broad introduction to epistemology by way of a selection of representative topics, including core questions i(the nature of knowledge, whether we know anything, when is it reasonable or justified to believe something), open problems (epistemic paradoxes), as well as more applied issues at the intersection of epistemology and philosophy of mind, philosophy of language, ethics, political philosophy and/or philosophy of religion (topics may vary from one year to another).

Assessment details

Summative: 1 x 2-hour examination (100%)

Formative assessment: 1 x 1,500-word essay.

 

Educational aims & objectives

Epistemology deals with what we know, what we should believe, and related topics. The module aims to provide students with a working understanding of some central notions of the discipline (knowledge, belief, credence, justification) and the ability to reflect on some of its core issues (the nature of knowledge, skepticism, internalism vs externalism) but also the ability to apply them on some more specific issues at the intersection of epistemology and other areas of philosophy (e.g. epistemic norms of assertion, the nature of belief, epistemic injustice, political ignorance, the possibility of self-knowledge, the rationality of religious belief; topics covered vary from one year to another).

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate intellectual, practical and transferable skills appropriate to a Level 4 modules, and will be able to:

· articulate some major theories the core notions of the epistemology,

· analyse philosophical texts and arguments,

· summarize and present arguments,

· present empirical evidence (e.g. sociological, psychological) relevant to epistemological debates, where applicable,

· develop arguments drawing on multiple areas of philosophy,

· research, plan and write essays to specified deadlines.

 

Please note that module syllabus and topics covered may vary from year to year.

The modules that run in each academic year are subject to change in line with staff availability and student demand, so there is no guarantee every module will run. Module descriptions and information may vary between years.

The teaching patterns for 2025/26 as advertised may be subject to change, depending on changing circumstances and government guidelines.

 

Teaching pattern

One two-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks.

Suggested reading list

Core readings are provided via KEATS. Suggested readings in advance of the module:

  • Nagel, Jenifer (2015). Knoweldge: a very short introduction. Oxford University Press.
  • Hannon, Michael and Woodard, Elise (2025). Political Epistemology: an Introduction. Routledge. (Chapter 4, for instance).
  • Carter, Adam and Littlejohn, Clayton (2021). This is Epistemology. Wiley-Blackwell. (Chaps 2, 4, 7 for instance)
  • Goldman, Alvin and McGrath, Matthew (2015). Epistemology, a contemporary introduction. Oxford University Press. (Chap. 11, in particular).

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.