Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) radically challenged traditional ideas of what philosophising involves and has had an enormous influence on subsequent thinkers. This module will explore some of Nietzsche's key writings, situating them in the context of Post-Kantian philosophy. Some or all of the following themes will be explored: appearance and reality, genealogy, truth, naturalism, nihilism, aesthetics and the critique of morality and religion. Students on this advanced version will not sit an exam but will submit a piece of coursework and an advanced project. This module is offered biennially.
(and the advanced version of this, dunno how it differs) What is history? Is it reasonable to apply moral criteria to the historical process? Can or even must we conceive of history as progress? Are there laws in history? From the 18th century enlightenment to Marxist historical materialism, strong claims have been made in response to these questions. They have come under severe attack from the later 19th century on to the present. The module will examine the arguments and concepts employed in this debate. It is suitable as a first honours module in Philosophy. This module is offered biennially.
