Overview

Embark on a captivating intellectual journey with our thought-provoking module, "The Existential Struggle: Human Rights in Existentialist Thought ." Designed for students seeking a profound exploration of real-world issues, this course invites you to unravel the intricate interplay between existentialist philosophy and human rights ethics.

Dive deep into the philosophical musings of visionaries such as Albert Camus, Hannah Arendt, Simone de Beauvoir, Martin Heidegger, and Frantz Fanon. Our engaging lectures and seminars will navigate the complex terrain of individual freedom and autonomy, political oppression, racism and discrimination, war and violence, feminism, and LGBTQ issues. This course offers a unique lens through which to examine the ethical implications of these pressing concerns, providing a space for critical reflection and in-depth analysis.

Discover the relevance of existentialist philosophy in addressing the ethical challenges posed by contemporary social, political, and environmental landscapes. As we explore the profound questions raised by these philosophical giants, you'll gain valuable insights into how existentialist thought can shape ethical decision-making in the face of multifaceted challenges.

This course goes beyond traditional philosophy, offering a dynamic and contemporary perspective that resonates with the urgency of real-world issues. Join us in a stimulating academic environment that encourages critical thinking, fosters rich discussions, and empowers you to navigate the complexities of ethical decision-making in our ever-evolving world. Immerse yourself in a transformative learning experience that not only expands your philosophical horizons but equips you to engage with and contribute meaningfully to the pressing ethical dilemmas of our time.

Topics may include:

Theme 1: Introduction to Existentialism and Human Rights Ethics: • Overview of existentialism and human rights ethics • Key concepts and themes

Theme 2: Political Oppression and Resistance: • Hannah Arendt's analysis of totalitarianism and its effects on human freedom • Albert Camus' exploration of resistance and rebellion

Theme 3: Racism and Discrimination: • Frantz Fanon's analysis of racism and colonialism • James Baldwin's "The Fire Next Time" and the intersection of race, identity, and human rights

Theme 4: War and Violence • Martin Heidegger's analysis of violence and its effects on human existence • Emmanuel Levinas' exploration of the ethical implications of violence and the Other

Theme 5: Feminism: • Simone de Beauvoir's analysis of gender and its effects on human freedom • Judith Butler's exploration of gender performativity and its ethical implications

Theme 6: LGBTQ Issues: • Michel Foucault's analysis of sexuality and its relationship to power • Sara Ahmed's exploration of queer phenomenology and its ethical implications

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (D- to D+): Work at this level demonstrates a basic understanding of the intersection between existentialist philosophy and human rights ethics. The content is generally accurate, but there may be notable omissions and errors that impact the exploration of key issues. Assertions are present, but they lack clear supporting evidence or reasoning, indicating a need for a more robust foundation in existentialist thought. The structure may lack clarity, relying on the reader to make connections, and a relatively narrow range of source material suggests the need for broader engagement with existentialist thinkers.

Good (C- to C+): At the Good level, the work shows competence throughout, occasionally standing out due to a superior style, approach, or choice of supporting materials within the context of existentialism and human rights ethics. The structure is good, featuring logically developed arguments that delve into the ethical implications of existentialist thought on human rights issues. There is evidence of independent study, sourcing material in a unique way that contributes to a nuanced exploration of key topics. Assertions are generally backed by evidence and sound reasoning, with occasional lapses in accuracy. The overall presentation aligns with the expected academic style for this specific interdisciplinary field.

Very Good (B- to B+): Work at the Very Good level consistently demonstrates competence and is distinguished by a superior style, approach, and the selection of supporting materials relevant to existential philosophy and human rights ethics. The structure is very good, featuring logically developed arguments that showcase a deep understanding of how existentialist thought informs ethical considerations in human rights. The work consistently draws on material sourced through independent study or in a unique manner, reflecting a higher level of engagement with existentialist thinkers. Assertions are consistently backed by evidence and sound reasoning within the specific context of existentialism and human rights ethics. Accuracy is generally maintained, and the presentation aligns seamlessly with the expectations of an appropriate academic style in this interdisciplinary field.

Excellent (A- to A):* Work at the Excellent level is of outstanding quality within the context of existential philosophy and human rights ethics. It stands out in one or more aspects, demonstrating originality in exposition and showcasing the student's own thinking in navigating complex ethical dilemmas. Clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study is present, showcasing a profound understanding of how existentialist philosophy shapes ethical decision-making in human rights contexts. Arguments are presented with exceptional clarity, guiding the reader through successive stages of consideration to reach well-supported conclusions that contribute significantly to the discourse in existentialism and human rights ethics. The work not only meets but exceeds the expectations of an outstanding academic submission in this specific interdisciplinary field.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically examining the original writings of major philosophers, exploring the fundamental principles of this philosophical perspective.

• Cultivate the skill to critically examine the application of existential philosophy to human rights issues, evaluating its relevance and impact to current case studies.

• Develop the ability to construct arguments to either support or critique generalizations within the context of existentialist philosophy and human rights ethics, considering the specific implications of these overarching principles.

• Explore the intersection of existentialism and human rights ethics, analysing the connections and tensions between these two philosophical frameworks.