The Western Tradition: Modern Philosophy 1600-1800

Course Description: The term Modern Philosophy does not refer to the philosophy of the present day (which is known as Contemporary Philosophy) but rather to the thought that emerged during a specific period of European history beginning with René Descartes and ending with Immanuel Kant. Accordingly, this course focuses on the philosophical thought of significant figures in the Western intellectual tradition between approximately 1600 and 1800. The course begins with the writings of French philosopher René Descartes and includes the work of later thinkers from throughout Europe, including notable figures from the British Isles who had a tremendous influence on the founding of America. Topics of interest for the course include the nature of knowledge and how we can come to know the truth, the relationship between our own experiences and the real world, and how and whether we can overcome the problems posed by doubt. In addition to the historical approach taken by this course, the role that Modern Philosophy can play in helping us understand our own experiences and exercise our own reason is considered. The course emphasizes lecture, student participation, and essay writing—discussion is highly encouraged.

Course Objectives: By the end of the course,

1. The student will be able to state and provide reasons for the basic positions taken by the major figures of Modern Philosophy in the Western tradition, including René Descartes, John Locke, Gottfried Leibniz, and David Hume, and Immanuel Kant.

2. The student will be able to compare and contrast the positions taken by these major figures in Modern Philosophy.

3. The student will comprehend and be able to express, both verbally and in writing, the significance of these positions in Modern Philosophy with respect to our own everyday lives and experiences as well as the development of Western civilization as a whole.

4. The student will be able to take and defend a position of his or her own choosing regarding a significant topic in Modern Philosophy using sound reasoning and argumentation.

Prerequisites: Ancient Philosophy (Recommended)