We will be examining rationality as it pertains to beliefs on the one hand, and desires and actions on the other, and comparing the two.

Questions we will be asking: What is the relationship between epistemic rationality and truth? Can there be rational disagreements, or are conflicting opinions a basis for scepticism, calling for belief suspension? Is the principle of sufficient reason a valid principle of rationality (theoretical and practical)? Are judgements of rationality (of both kinds) absolute or relative? Can aims/desires be assessed as (ir)rational or is practical rationality exhausted by the (instrumentalist) choice of appropriate means to given ends? Are rational desires hedonistic? Can altruism be rational, or even rationally required? Is it ever justified to believe against the evidence?

 Requirements: participation in, and reading for, at least 2/3 of the meetings, submitting three essays and a seminar paper.

The grade will be based on the three essays (0.3) and the seminar paper (0.7).