Reason and its rivals from Kant to Freud

Code

MLAC2113

School

Modern Languages and Cultures

Level

2

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

The module discusses a selection of theoretical approaches to modernity, beginning with Kant's assertion of individual reason as the founding stone of enlightened social organisation, and interrogations of that position in the work of Marx and Engels, Nietzsche and Freud. It will discuss historical views on such issues as the nature of the individual subject, different assessments of the social, political or moral contract, and views as to the role and fate of culture in that social organisation, as well as competing ideas of the status of reality as based in social or material conditions or the product of the will, drives, or ideology.

Target Students

Available for Second Year UG Students of German and Liberal Arts, Exchange and Subsid students.

Classes

• One 1-hour seminar each week for 11 weeks
• One 1-hour lecture each week for 11 weeks

Breakdown of hours: 22 tutor-led, 50 student-led, 28 assessment and revision. The School of Cultures, Languages and Area Studies operates an attendance policy. The details of this policy can be found in the student handbook on Workspace and in module handbooks.

Assessment

• 100% Coursework 1: 1800-2200 word essay in English.

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

a) Knowledge and Understanding: 

• The module will develop students’ knowledge and understanding of key ideas associated with modernity in the texts of Kant, Marx and Engels, Nietzsche, and Freud. It will offer them a sophisticated understanding of such issues as the nature of the individual subject, the social, political or moral contract, and the role and fate of culture in that social organisation. (A2, A3)

b) Intellectual Skills: 

• The module will allow students to develop skills of analysis and close reading applied to a selection of texts which present theoretical approaches to modernity. They will also learn how to reflect critically and make judgements in the light of evidence and argument; identify and reflect on questions and problems; and process and evaluate information derived from a variety of sources. (B1, B2, B3, B4, B5)

c/d) PPT & Language Skills: 

• Students will develop their ability to work with linguistically complex and intellectually demanding primary materials in German at a high level of complexity and in different registers, and they will enhance their oral and written communication skills in English. They will be expected to work independently and in small groups, organise and manage their working time, meet deadlines, and write and think productively under pressure. They will also need to use IT effectively as a means of communication and an aid to learning. (C3, C4, C5, D1, D2, D3, D4, D6, D7, D8)

Conveners

• Dr Jerome Carroll