formerly M-FIL/01 Theoretical Philosophy

The field explores the philosophical relationship between the world and human experience in its various forms and conditions of possibility. Theoretical Philosophy interrogates the foundations of different forms of knowledge and their processes of meaning-making, while also reflecting on the very status of philosophy itself.
In its metaphilosophical dimension, it articulates the rationale behind philosophical inquiry, clarifies its structure and conceptual frameworks, and analyses its discursive forms and argumentative techniques. This is done through a critical engagement with philosophical tradition and an openness to non-philosophical knowledge domains and diverse experiential forms.
Philosophical-theoretical practice draws on a plurality of methods and styles of thought, and addresses a broad range of thematic areas: metaphysics and ontology; metaphilosophy; theories of subjectivity, action, and rationality; philosophy of knowledge and mind; foundations of philosophical anthropology; philosophical hermeneutics; philosophy of religion; philosophy of cultures and communication; philosophical theories of gender; philosophy of nature and technology; philosophical education and argumentation theory.
The field also investigates the content and methodologies specific to the teaching of philosophy, particularly in relation to the questions and issues it addresses. By combining foundational inquiry with critical dialogue across different fields of knowledge, the didactic and educational activity promotes the development of philosophical conceptual and argumentative tools, the acquisition of its discursive categories, and the ability to interpret and contextualise key texts and fundamental questions—ultimately fostering the maturation of critical thinking. It also cultivates the ability to draw connections not only among different areas of philosophy, but also between philosophy and other major forms of knowledge