In this course we will read and interpret the works of major philosophers across the spectrum of modern philosophy, including writings by Descartes, Hume, Kant, and Hegel. The emphasis will be on metaphysics and the theory of knowledge. The metaphysical questions posed by these authors partly concern the fundamental nature of reality: questions about the existence and attributes of mind, matter, and God. Other questions concern the characteristics and limitations of the human intellect and the human will: questions about the possibility of human freedom, and about whether the structure of human reason is eternal or is historically-conditioned.
The aim of the course is not to provide a survey of philosophical activity from Descartes to Hegel, but rather to focus upon selected writings appropriate to the above themes. This will allow students to go beyond reading about the work of major philosophers, to the analysis and interpretation of the works themselves.
There will be three writing assignments: one take-home essay (due in section Feb. 4) and two short papers (due Mar. 2 and Apr. 8). There will be a comprehensive final examination, essay format, at the time assigned by the registrar.
Office hours: M 11-12, T 12-1, and by appointment.
Reading Guides
Reading Guide I (Weeks 1-2)
Reading Guide II (Weeks 3-5)
Reading Guide III (Weeks 6-8)
Reading Guide IV (Weeks 9-12)
Reading Guide V (Weeks 12-13)
Reading Guide VI (Weeks 13-14)
Required books
Books may be purchased in the Penn Book Center (Samson and 34th).
They will also be available in Rosengarten.
Brief schedule
Week 1 Introduction
Weeks 2-5 Descartes: metaphysics, mind-body problem, new science
Weeks 6-8 Hume: naturalism, skepticism, freedom
Weeks 9-12 Kant: possibility of metaphysical knowledge
Weeks 12-14 Hegel: reason in history