PHIL 322 - Existentialism

4 Hour(s) Credit
A close reading of texts from one of the 20th century’s most influential intellectual movements, wherein an analysis of the actual conditions of living is taken as the basis from which to address fundamental questions about the nature and significance of human action. Emphasis is placed on the ideas of freedom, finitude, the existence of God, the nature of personhood and the ethics of relations. Requires study of major historical texts by such philosophers as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, de Beauvoir and Sartre, but with an eye toward contemporary social issues. Significant attention also is given to the literary, dramatic and poetic influence this movement has provoked.
Three hours per week with enhancement.
Prerequisites One philosophy course or permission of instructor.