Learning Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this module should be able to:
• REFLECT critically upon philosophical debates concerning emotions and morality in the eighteenth century and the philosophical problems that continue to influence present-day debates;
• IDENTIFY key philosophical concepts and show awareness of potential problems that led to the revision and refinement of these concepts in the historical debates;
• INTERPRET philosophical texts that were written in the eighteenth century;
• WRITE well-structured and well-argued essays that explain and critically assess philosophical views covered in this module;
• ARTICULATE their own responses to philosophical views, support them with evidence, and defend them in light of criticism;
• INTERACT effectively and respectfully with other students, listen to and learn from others.
Indicative Module Content:
This module offers an introduction to philosophical debates concerning emotions and morality in the eighteenth century. We will discuss topics such as human nature and personal and moral development, love, and empathy.
We will read selected texts by philosophers such as Damaris Masham, Mary Astell, David Hume, Adam Smith, Sophie de Grouchy, and others.