Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The unit provides an overview of major developments in Continental philosophy of religion. The beginning of the unit explores the influential critiques of religion made by Kant, Nietzsche and Feuerbach, analyses the significance of the announcement that "God is dead," and examines the philosophical implications of atheism. The remainder of the unit addresses major figures in the Continental tradition for whom the "death of God" opens new ways for thinking about religion. These thinkers include Kierkegaard, Heidegger, Wittgenstein, Rosenzweig, Levinas, Derrida, Marion and Vattimo. The unit also provides an introduction to the philosophical methods of 'phenomenology' and 'hermeneutics'.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will:

1. Understand the major developments in Continental philosophy of religion
2. Appreciate the distinct contribution of major Continental thinkers to the critique of philosophical theology and to its renewal
3. Be able to analyse seminal texts from Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, Heidegger and others
4. Have gained an introduction to the methods of phenomenology and hermeneutics and appreciate their usefulness for the philosophy of religion and philosophy generally
5. Demonstrate the capacity to interpret and evaluate important concepts, arguments and texts, as well as to put forward ideas and arguments of their own in a clear and cogent way.

Assessment

Assignment 1 (2500 words): 40%
Assignment 2 (2500 words): 40%
Oral presentation and participation: 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Michael Fagenblat

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Philosophy