PHL3550

Hegel and Nietzsche

Claire Colebrook

8 points
* 2 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: Any two second-year philosophy subjects, unless permission is given by the instructor.

Objectives The aim of this subject is to introduce students to the philosophy of Hegel and Nietzsche and the issues arising from their work: in particular, the idea of philosophical system and foundation. Students should not only be familiar with the texts studied but also have an appreciation for their importance in the history of European philosophy.

Synopsis The first part of the course will undertake a close and detailed reading of Hegel's Phenomenology of spirit. The topics studied will include Hegel's particular understanding of philosophy as history of philosophy, the nature of consciousness and the aim of absolute understanding. The second part of the course will look at Nietzsche's criticisms of the aims of metaphysics and his response to the ideals of philosophical foundationalism and transcendental arguments.

Assessment Two essays (3000 words each): 100%

Prescribed texts

Hegel G W F The phenomenology of spirit
Nietzsche F The will to power
Nietzsche F The gay science