Existentialism: an introduction

Is life absurd? What does it mean to be true to yourself? Can we overcome our alienation from each other and the world? You will be introduced to these and other issues in the works of existential philosophers such as Kierkegaard, Heidegger and Sartre.

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Key course information

Dates
09/01/12 - 26/03/12

Day(s)
Mon

Duration
12 weeks

Time
12:30 - 14:30

Fees
Full fee: £110
Senior fee: £62
Concession: £30

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HP053

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

What topics will we cover?

Major themes discussed by existential philosophers such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger and Sartre. For example:
are we free, and if so what are we to do with this freedom?- the meaning a life can have in a Godless universe.
the causes of our estrangement from ourselves and from other people.
a consideration of existential moods and emotions such as anxiety, guilt and despair, and the significance passion and commitment have to a human life.
.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- recognise the ideas associated with the specific existential philosophers
- identify the broad themes which link these authors
- appreciate the relevance of these issues to your own life
- analyse problems in a reflective philosophical way
- identify how philosophy has a distinctive approach or way of tackling problems.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for those who have followed an introductory course, but those new to philosophy will also be welcome .However an enthusiasm for learning as well as an open and critical mind will enhance your enjoyment and benefit from this course. On joining this course you should be able to read and comment upon extracts from a philosophical text. You should be prepared to discuss this reading in class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

combination of lectures, group and class discussion.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There will be the opportunity to participate in quizzes and other informal assessment procedures during the class. Students can ask for feedback about progress from the tutor at any time.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. learning will be assessed through discussion and question and answer. There will be informal opportunities for students to discuss their progress.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Select another date / day / time

Dates	Day(s)	Time	Duration	Fees	Snr	Conc	Code	Availability
09/01/12 to 26/03/12	Mon	12:30 - 14:30	12 weeks	£110	£62	£30	HP053	Finished	» Select
10/01/12 to 27/03/12	Tue	18:00 - 19:30	12 weeks	£86	£86	N/A	HP011	Finished	» Select