PHIL2633 - Theorising Modernity

Semester 1, 2012  |  Credit Points: 6

Coordinator: John Grumley
Phone: +61 2 9351 2465
Email: john.grumley@sydney.edu.au

Description

A survey of a range of classical 19th century theories from the standpoint of what they offer to the understanding of the newly emerging modern bourgeois social world. The work of Hegel, Marx, de Tocqueville, and Nietzsche will serve as paradigmatic attempts to discover the essence of this new society. Recurring themes and features will be examined through the prism of these thinkers: these include the problem of meaning after the collapse of tradition, the rise of secularism, capitalism, industrialisation, democracy, bureaucratisation and individualism -- their features, antinomies and problems. The unit is also intended as an introduction to the thinkers concerned while focusing in each case on their theorisation of modernity.

Assessments

1x2000wd essay (50%) and 1x2500wd take-home exam (50%)

Classes

1x2-hr lecture/week, 1x1-hr tutorial/week

Prerequisites

12 junior credit points in Philosophy

Prohibitions

PHIL1007, PHIL2533

The information displayed above is indicative only as online information is subject to change without notice. The Faculty Handbook and the University of Sydney Calendar are the official legal source of information relating to study at the University of Sydney