Classics of Analytic Philosophy (328-0-20)
Instructors
Axel Mueller
847/491-2558
Kresge 3-345
Meeting Info
Parkes Hall 224: Mon, Wed 3:30PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
In this course, we will study some of the major figures in early analytic philosophy. The basic orientation of the course is systematic, although the historical emergence of the ideas will structure the order of studying the figures in the seminar. The main systematic motives are the idea to solve traditional problems of modern philosophy by logical and linguistic analysis, which yields the basic features associated with the linguistic turn in philosophical methodology. Another theme is the ‘naturalizing' idea that the role of philosophy is that of at most a partner (if not a part) of science. The leading question tying together both is how the notion of what it is to be meaningful and representing the world correctly changes throughout a stepwise process of philosophical elucidation. Some especially illuminating and important part of the work done in the period called ‘the age of analysis' was done by women philosophers whose contributions were over time (after WW II was fought by the men) unjustly "forgotten" from the canonical texts taken as characterizing the main insights of analytic philosophy. One aim of the course is to set the canon right on this score by including women philosophers' contributions in the emerging discussions over the role, power, and limits of analysis as a method. On the whole, the course aims at illustrating how in the course of analysis genuinely philosophical problems and issues (from conditions of knowledge of the world and other minds to those for norms and judgments of evaluative correctness) made their way from a transcendental domain into the reach of human reason, and thus opened philosophers (and contemporary thinking) up to unprecedented solutions and promises of revolutionary re-conceptions of what it takes for human beings to represent, know, and orient ourselves in the world.
Evaluation Method
Attendance is mandatory. E-mail reading is mandatory. Presentation required [probably group work]. Contribution to discussion will decide the grade in case of doubt.
Undergraduates: One short paper (~1200 words) 03.00p.m., Final paper (~2000 words)
Graduates: One Final Research Paper (15+p.)
Topics will be fairly general; for the short paper,and for the final paper Final research paper (only graduates) on approval
Class Materials (Required)
Must be purchased.
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Pre-registration -- Reserved for Philosophy students.