Evolution and Revolution

DESCRIPTION:
Four thinkers whose theories of conflict and change played a decisive role in the formation of contemporary culture, science and art. Comparative study and critical assessment of their theories and influence: Darwin’s natural selection, Marx’s historical materialism, Freud’s theory of the unconscious, Nietzsche’s will to power.

RATIONALE: 
Darwin, Freud, Marx, and Nietzsche cannot be ignored by any educated person who wants to understand contemporary thought. Through their philosophical insights and their scientific conclusions, they have greatly contributed to the formation of twentieth-century culture. Their influence can be traced in all our attitudes (conscious or unconscious) vis-à-vis society, politics, religion, science, and art. The class should prove valuable to all students.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
As a result of taking this course, the student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate understanding of and explain the main ideas of Darwin, Freud, Marx and Nietzsche.
2. Evaluate the philosophical arguments accompanying their research.
3. Interpret and critically evaluate the ideas and the arguments of these major thinkers.
4. Compare and contrast their particular views on several important issues and evaluate the plausibility and the limits of their claims.
5. Identify and appraise their influence on particular trends developing in various areas of contemporary domains of knowledge and culture.
6. Develop, in both oral and written forms, philosophical concepts and abstract terms in a clear, systematic and meaningful way.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
- Classes consist of lectures and class discussions of primary sources as well as of contemporary articles assigned by the lecturer. 
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- Office hours: Students are encouraged to make full use of the office hours of their lecturer, where they can discuss the course material.
- Use of a Blackboard site, where lecturers can post lecture notes assignment instructions, timely announcements, as well as additional resources.
- Use of library facilities: Students are encouraged to make use of the library facilities for their research paper as well as for preparation for the final exam.