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Course Offerings

Course Details

Spring 2011-2012
* JDS 221 / PHI 221  

Philosophy After Auschwitz

Oded Schechter

Focusing on the growing philosophical and theological literature about the Nazi concentration camps in general and about Auschwitz in particular, this seminar considers the challenges that the Nazi genocide brings to philosophy, theology, and conceptions of morality and politics. Sub topics will include: The theological questions Auschwitz poses to philosophy, Moral and political philosophy after Auschwitz, Representation and language after Auschwitz, and The concept of the Absolute after Auschwitz.

Sample reading list:
Adorno, T.W., Negative Dialektik
Agamben, G., Remnants of Auschwitz
Arendt, H., "The Concentration Camps," Partisan Reviews 15 (7), 1948
Fackenheim, E., God's Presence in History
Joans, H., Mortality and Morality
Lyotarad, J.F., The Differend: Phrases in Dispute
See instructor for complete list

Reading/Writing assignments:
Each student is to submit electronically, prior to each session, a one-page outline of questions for the seminar. These will be turned in via blackboard at least one day before the seminar. Take-home midterm paper (approx. 5-7 pages). Final paper (approx. 12 pages).

Requirements/Grading:
Paper in lieu of Final - 40%
Take Home Mid term Exam - 25%
Oral Presentation(s) - 10%
Class/Precept Participation - 15%
Other (See Instructor) - 10%

Schedule/Classroom assignment:

Class numberSectionTimeDaysRoomEnrollmentStatus
43145 S01 1:30 pm - 4:20 pm W   Scheide Caldwell House   203   Enrolled:7 Limit:15