https://at-ceu.studyguide.timeedit.net/modules/PHIL5857?type=COREThis course presents some key philosophical debates about the nature of beliefs and desires, and so-called "standing states" in general (these are states outside the agent's stream of consciousness). In the first part, we shall look at the main theories about the metaphysics of beliefs and desires; the relation between standing states and their manifestations; the role of desires and beliefs in action and ask if we can be responsible for beliefs and desires. In the second part of the course, we will look at some puzzling phenomena about beliefs and desires, such as weakness of the will and self-deception; and ask if some other standing mental features like character traits and delusions can be reduced to beliefs and desires. Finally, we will apply our theories to the question of whether animals have beliefs and desires.