Existentialism

Catalog description

A survey of both the philosophical and more literary writings of the existentialist movement. Readings will be chosen from among the following writers: Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Dostoevsky, Kafka, Marcel, Heidegger, Camus, Sartre, Jaspers, Beauvoir, Ortega, and Merleau-Ponty. Typically offered Fall Spring Summer. Course Learning Outcomes 1. Achieve a competent grasp of the issues raised by the major existentialist thinkers, and to begin the process of learning to think more clearly, deeply, and consistently about them on one’s own. Issues include the relationship between the individual and society, the distinction between authentic and inauthentic living, and the problem of finding meaning in life. 2. Become familiar in detail with the works of some of the most important philosophers and literary figures of the past two hundred years. 3. Develop greater critical thinking skills, especially in connection with “abstract” ideas and arguments, and to improve one’s ability to write critically, carefully, and creatively about matters of great importance. View Class Schedule