This module provides a broad introduction to the existentialist and phenomenological movements in modern European philosophy. The key theme of the importance of individual lived experience, something ignored by the abstractions of both traditional metaphysics and modern scientism, will be explored through studying the ideas of Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Husserl, Heidegger, Sartre, Merleau-Ponty, and Levinas. The relationship of the movements to political theory (e.g. Beauvoir and Fanon) and literature (e.g. Camus) will also be examined. There will be some consideration of critiques of existentialism and phenomenology from various perspectives.
Module learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of a selection of key texts in existentialism and phenomenology.
Compare and contrast different approaches to some of the issues in existentialism and phenomenology.
Analyse and evaluate a selection of key texts in existentialism and phenomenology.
Indicative assessment
Task
% of module mark
Essay/coursework
100
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task
% of module mark
Essay/coursework
100
Module feedback
The tutor will give regular individual verbal and written feedback throughout the module on work submitted.
The assessment feedback is as per the university’s guidelines with regard to timings.
Indicative reading
Phenomenology and Existentialism, Solomon, R. (ed.), Rowman and Littlefield, 2001.
Existentialism: An Introduction, Aho, K., Polity Press, 2014.
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