Corso di laurea magistrale in Filosofia

To participate effectively in the course, it is useful to have a basic understanding of Kant's Theoretical philosophy.

This course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of classical works and influential philosophers of the 20th century. Through guided group discussions and independent study, students will develop analytical skills and a critical understanding of philosophical texts, with a particular focus on identifying and evaluating arguments. By contextualizing theories and exploring their historical significance, students will gain a deep appreciation for the evolution of philosophical thought.

The objective of the course is to significantly enhance students' skills in historical analysis and philosophical appreciation of texts and authors that have significantly influenced contemporary philosophy. Additionally, the course intends to consolidate their competencies in the methodology of historiography and the history of interpretations.

Kant and the exact sciences

This course explores the intricate interaction between Kant’s philosophy and the exact sciences of his time. It begins with the premise that Kant’s persistent efforts to establish a metaphysical basis for the sciences are crucial for understanding the evolution of his theoretical thought from the pre-critical period to his final works. After a comprehensive introduction to Kant’s theoretical philosophy, the course centers on the analysis and interpretation of two key texts where the relationship between Kantian philosophy and the sciences is most directly evident: the “Prolegomena” (1783) and the “First Principles of the Metaphysics of Natural Science” (1786). Participants will delve into Kant’s profound influence on the philosophy of science and his endeavor to reconcile metaphysics with empirical investigation.

A balanced learning experience consisting of 52 hours of traditional classroom lectures and 20 hours of interactive seminars

For attending students, the examination program is based on the Kant's texts read and discussed in class. To pass the course, students must:

• active partecipation (10% if the final grade)
• give an oral presentation (20% of the final grade).
• successfully complete two online quizzes at the end of each semester (with a minimum score of 70%).
• write a concise essay of approximately 6000 words (70% of the final grade).

In case an oral presentation is not possible, students are required to compose a brief, approximately 1000-word paper on a topic that has been agreed upon with the instructor in advance.

For non-attending students, the program includes, in addition to the two texts by Kant, the introductory text by Michael Friedman (see bibliographic references). To successfully complete the course, students must:

• pass an oral examination (50% of the final grade).
• submit a brief essay of approximately 6000 words (50% of the final grade).