Required Reading
Each of our texts examines philosophical and cultural premises
related to "civilization", and the
possible effects of those premises on the lives of
individuals living both inside and outside the so-called “civilized world”. Each of the
texts uses fiction to represent very real historical, political, religious and technological events
and trends, and all are also fairly didactic and rhetorical; each attempts to form and
influence public
opinion. Each is, then, a representation, an empirical exercise and an argument.
Each of the texts addresses the question
“how then should we live?” How should we live our lives -- not simply as
individuals, but as individuals caught up in complex, conflicting
social/historical/political/economic webs. Each examines the ethical life – the life lived in
relationship to others both inside and outside one's own community and
culture, examining the boundaries of freedom and
responsibility, the self and the “other”.
In addition to the required anthology, various readings will be made available online. Students are also expected to review all lecture content listed on the Schedule and Lecture Notes page.
Required Texts:
The bulk of our readings are available for free, online, and linked
from the "Schedule and Lecture Notes" page. However, the following hardcopy
texts are also required. You do not need to buy the specific editions listed
below.
Tartuffe by Moliere ISBN: 9780486411170
Candide by Voltaire ISBN: 9780486266893
The Narrative of a the life of Frederick Douglass by Douglass ISBN: 9781613822913
Heart of Darkness by Conrad ISBN: 9780486264646
No Exit by Sartre ISBN: 9780573613050