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Nietzsche and Critics (PHIL20038)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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Nietzsche’s bold and original challenges to traditional morality and the primacy of reason have made him one of the best known and most influential of modern thinkers. This course provides a broad introduction to Nietzsche as a philosopher by addressing his views on a range of themes such as tragedy, history, morality, knowledge, the eternal recurrence and the will to power. We also consider some of Nietzsche’s more prominent critics and the wide range of interpretations to which his rich but controversial work have given rise.

Intended learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this subject will:



  • acquire a braod understanding of the central themes and aims of Nietzsche's thought as well as a deeper critical understanding of some of those issues through independent study and assessments;
  • develop the ability to understand critical commentary on Nietzsche's work and to ass independently its relevance for contemporary debates within and beyond philosophy;
  • appreciate the difficulties of engaging with historically important and provocative philosophical works, and acquire skills in the careful interpretation and balanced critical evaluation of such works;
  • work individually and in groups to interpret philosophical texts, explain clearly and critically evaluate the ideas contained in them.

Last updated: 10 January 2025