University of Stirling

Philosophy

Current Students: Undergraduates

 

Core modules and Options at Level 10

PHI9HF - Hegel and the Phenomenology of Spirit

Outline

This module will provide an introduction to the philosophy of Hegel looking at one of his most influential works, Phenomenology of Spirit (1807). We will study the entire text and the module emphasis will be on a close reading of the text. The module aims to engage with Hegel’s notoriously difficult but stimulating ideas thereby uncovering the nature of Hegel’s method, his goals and what the role and significance of the Phenomenology are in Hegel’s philosophical system. The Phenomenology covers an enormous range of different philosophical topics; during the module we will discuss Hegel’s views on epistemology, metaphysics, philosophy of history, ethics and political philosophy. We will also be looking at Hegel’s critiques of Kant, Schelling and Rousseau.

 

Outcomes

This module aims: (i) to introduce students to Hegel’s philosophy and to one of Hegel’s key writings; (ii) to enable students to develop their own critical stance on the issues discussed and on Hegel’s work; (iii) to develop further students’ critical and reflective thought; and (iv) to develop key employability skills through seminar discussions and essay writing processes.

Reading

Students are expected to purchase these texts.

 

Hegel, G. W. F (1977) Phenomenology of Spirit, translated by A.V.Miller, Oxford Clarendon Press
Stern, R. (2002) Hegel and the ‘Phenomenology of Spirit’ London: Routledge

 

Availability:

 Honours semester 5/7, BA in Philosophy or the General degree

Prerequisite:

 One of Level 9 modules in Philosophy

Assessment:

Coursework (one required essay) 50%; examination (3 questions in 3 hours) 50%. Students may choose to submit a second essay to improve their coursework grade.

Teaching Pattern:

 Each week there will be two one-hour lectures and one one-hour class

Regulation:

For the purposes of the University’s attendance regulation 14, seminars are prescribed classes. The rationale for prescribing these classes may be found in the Philosophy Student Handbook, section F. This section also contains regulations relating to the submission of essays, and other matters.

 

If you would like to know more about this module please contact Departmental Secretaries.