Doing this meant that many traditional philosophical foundations had to be radically questioned. Here, we will discuss some of the interesting similarities and differences between the Pragmatists and Existentialists including the proper ambitions of philosophy, the nature of the self and society, and the sources of meaning for language and action. We will read selections from both the philosophical and literary works of the Existentialists and from several of the major Pragmatists. Authors will include Dostoyevsky, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, James, Dewey, and McDermott. Other required readings will either be handed out in class or available online.
Philosophy is a team sport.
It requires verbal discussion as much as written argument. If you push yourself in here, are willing to make mistakes and take intellectual risks, you will receive the highest possible grade for participation. It is expected that you have done the readings before we discuss them. It is strongly suggested that you do each reading twice before class. Philosophy may be brief but it is never simple- don't underestimate the author.