PHIL2040
10 units
2000 level
Course handbook
Description
Suffering has provided one of the richest touchstones for human thought. For centuries people have sought to reflect upon painful experiences that in many cases defied meaningful description. The course investigates diverse reflections upon the nature of human and other forms of suffering. It develops comparative methodologies in the academic study of religion and philosophy in order to help students evaluate divergent philosophical and religious viewpoints on the topic.
Availability
Not currently offered.
This Course was last offered in Semester 2 - 2022.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Evaluate diverse reflections upon human and other forms of suffering;
2. Critically analyse key categories for understanding suffering;
3. Apply comparative methodologies to different accounts of suffering;
4. Employ writing, research and information technology skills appropriate to studies of philosophy, religion, and the history of ideas.
Content
The course will investigate suffering through a range of key thinkers that may include: Gottfried Leibniz; Al Ghazali; Immanuel Kant; Arthur Schopenhauer; Nagarjuna; William James; Simone Weil; Emmanuel Levinas; Hannah Arendt; and, Rene Girard.
Assessment items
Case Study / Problem Based Learning: Comparative approach to example case
Essay: Research essay on a chosen thinker
Journal: Reflections upon topics and readings
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.