Philosophy

Passions in Hume: Skepticism, Ethics, and Social Life. The course explores David Hume’s theory of the passions through a systematic analysis of Book II of the Treatise of Human Nature, selected sections of Book III, the Dissertation on the Passions, the Enquiry concerning the Principles of Morals, and the Dialogues concerning Natural Religion. Its aim is to show how the theory of the passions constitutes a central element of Hume’s philosophical system, performing several key functions: 1) offering a solution to the skeptical problem of the self; 2) providing a naturalistic account of action and ethics as an alternative to religious explanations; 3) clarifying the foundations of sociability and human well-being; 4) assigning a positive role even to passions seemingly harmful to society, such as anger and resentment; 5) emphasizing the profound similarity between human beings and non-human animals, who share fundamental passions and emotional mechanisms; 6) supplying a psychological explanation of religion.

A basic knowledge of philosophical disciplines (corresponding to the level of the upper secondary school) is required. In particular, it is needed a mastery of the basic philosophical terminology.

Attending the course is highly recommended

The exam consists of an oral interview. The oral interview will cover the entire program. In order to pass, the student must demonstrate the ability to: 1) know the content of the texts studied; 2) present them clearly, using the specialized vocabulary employed by the authors correctly; 3) identify the most relevant theoretical issues and discuss them critically; 4) independently develop an argument related to the topics covered. Meeting points 1 and 2 is a necessary condition for passing the exam. Grades higher than 27 will be awarded to students whose performance meets all four of the above criteria.

Traditional lecture-based teaching

Passions in Hume: Skepticism, Ethics, and Social Life. The course explores David Hume’s theory of the passions through a systematic analysis of Book II of the Treatise of Human Nature, selected sections of Book III, the Dissertation on the Passions, the Enquiry concerning the Principles of Morals, and the Dialogues concerning Natural Religion. Its aim is to show how the theory of the passions constitutes a central element of Hume’s philosophical system, performing several key functions: 1) offering a solution to the skeptical problem of the self; 2) providing a naturalistic account of action and ethics as an alternative to religious explanations; 3) clarifying the foundations of sociability and human well-being; 4) assigning a positive role even to passions seemingly harmful to society, such as anger and resentment; 5) emphasizing the profound similarity between human beings and non-human animals, who share fundamental passions and emotional mechanisms; 6) supplying a psychological explanation of religion.

A basic knowledge of philosophical disciplines (corresponding to the level of the upper secondary school) is required. In particular, it is needed a mastery of the basic philosophical terminology.

Attending the course is highly recommended

The exam consists of an oral interview. The oral interview will cover the entire program. In order to pass, the student must demonstrate the ability to: 1) know the content of the texts studied; 2) present them clearly, using the specialized vocabulary employed by the authors correctly; 3) identify the most relevant theoretical issues and discuss them critically; 4) independently develop an argument related to the topics covered. Meeting points 1 and 2 is a necessary condition for passing the exam. Grades higher than 27 will be awarded to students whose performance meets all four of the above criteria.

Traditional lecture-based teaching