Skepticism and critique in French and German Philosophy in the XVIIIth Century

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

Seminar work with reading of texts in the original language (French and German).

Learning Outcomes

To study a range of philosophical texts published in the 18th century in order to get some familiarity with some of the most significant debates in philosophy and science.

To enable students to think rigorously and consistently about philosophical questions.

The students should get an ability to write well-argued and coherent work of their own.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. The rediscovery and transformation of Ancient Scepticism in France and Germany (18th century);

2. The “philosophes” and Scepticism;

3. Voltaire;

4. The critic of Metaphysics: materialism and atheism; scepticism and dogmatism; Wolff and his critics; the search for a new metaphysics;

5. Hume in France and Germany (second half of the 18th century).

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Research work: 100.0%

Bibliography

Bibliografia a indicar na aula; o trabalho principal será feito a partir da leitura e comentário de textos da época nas línguas originais (francês e alemão). / Bibliography to be indicated in class; the main work will be done from the reading and discussion of texts in the original languages ( French and German).