Monash University Handbook 2010 Postgraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The course will model ethics through an investigation of M Bakhtin's version of structuralism, in particular his work on the philosophy of the act, in the context of poststructural critical theory. The concept of alterity will be investigated through additional theoretical and literary texts, notably E Levinas' Ethique et infinite, J-L Nancy's theory of community, G Deleuze's philosophy of action and A Badiou's 'objectless subject.' These theoretical materials will be used to construct a model of ethics through which to analyse and critique literary, visual and popular culture texts as well as theoretical approaches to the 'culture industry.'

Objectives

On successful completion of the course, students should be familiar with a model of ethics derived from M M Bakhtin's Philosophy of the Act, in the context of supplementary theoretical texts of poststructuralism (Levinas, Nancy, Badiou). With this model of ethics as a tool, students will be able to critique a variety of popular culture texts as well as Modernist and postmodern theoretical approaches to popular culture.

Assessment

Written work (7 000 words): 70%; Test (Two hours): 20%; Class Participation (continuous): 10%.

Contact hours

Two hour seminar per week

Prohibitions

CLS4835 and CRT5830