Metaphysics is a subfield of philosophy that addresses questions about the nature and structure of reality, with contemporary topics including debates about persistence, time, personal identity, material constitution, social kinds and social groups, possibility and necessity, and more. This course will serve as an upper-level introduction to contemporary metaphysics, paying special attention to larger questions about the aims and value of metaphysics.

The partner U-M / Barnes & Noble Education textbook website is the official way for U-M students to view their upcoming textbook or course material needs, whether they choose to buy from Barnes & Noble Education or not. Students also can view a customized list of their specific textbook needs by clicking a "View/Buy Textbooks" link in their course schedule in Wolverine Access.

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Syllabi are available to current LSA students. IMPORTANT: These syllabi are provided to give students a general idea about the courses, as offered by LSA departments and programs in prior academic terms. The syllabi do not necessarily reflect the assignments, sequence of course materials, and/or course expectations that the faculty and departments/programs have for these same courses in the current and/or future terms.

Click the button below to view historical syllabi for PHIL 481 (UM login required)

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CourseProfile (Atlas)