The course intends to reconstruct the interweaving between the theory of modernity and the analysis of subjectivity in Th. Hobbes, M. Weber, H. Blumenberg and M. Foucault. The aim of the course is in particular the analysis of the political implications of the anthropological theories of the authors and their interpretation of modern subjectivity.
Thomas Hobbes, Leviatano
Max Weber, Intermezzo. Teoria dei gradi e delle direzioni di rifiuto religioso del mondo, in Idem, Sociologia della religione.
Hans Blumenberg, La legittimità dell’età moderna.
Michel Foucault, Sicurezza, territorio, popolazione. Corso al Collège de France (1977‑78).
Other teaching materials available online (such as teacher’s notes, graphic syntheses etc.) may be suggested during the course.
Learning Objectives
Introduction to the philosophical analysis of political phenomena and to the different philosophical methods of concepts formation. Critical awareness of the nature of fundamental concepts and problems of political philosophy.
Prerequisites
Some previous acquaintance with the history of political thought, as well as a HighSchool-level knowledge of general philosophy, will turn useful. However, the teacher will provide all explanations that are needed, whenever asked to.
Teaching Methods
Lectures (about 72 hours). The course will consist of both lectures and discussions guided by the professor.
Further information
However not compulsory, attending the course turns out useful, and is highly recommended.
Type of Assessment
Final oral examination. The final exam aims to verify the acquisition of knowledge and skills through an oral test without the help of notes. The oral test consists in a conversation with the teacher aiming to verify the skills acquired by the student with reference to the contents of the course. During the oral exam could be asked to the student to read and comment a small piece excerpted from the philosophical texts of the classical authors included in the program. Particular attention will be paid to the student's ability to contextualize and critically analyze philosophical problems and proposed solutions.
Course program
Course title: Anthropologies of modernity
Program:
Thomas Hobbes, Leviatano, trad. it. a cura di A. Pacchi, con la collaborazione con A. Lupoli, Laterza, Roma-Bari 2018.
Max Weber, Intermezzo. Teoria dei gradi e delle direzioni di rifiuto religioso del mondo, in Idem, Sociologia della religione, vol. II, Comunità, Milano 2002.
Hans Blumenberg, La legittimità dell’età moderna, Marietti, Genova 1992.
Michel Foucault, Sicurezza, territorio, popolazione. Corso al Collège de France (1977‑78), Feltrinelli, Milano 2005.