HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY M - Z

The course is divided into two parts:

1. Ancient Philosophy (Prof. Cardullo): the origins and early developments of Greek philosophy (6th–4th century BCE);

2. Modern Philosophy (Prof. Coco): key authors and movements from the 16th century onwards.

The first part aims to provide an understanding of the historical and cultural roots of philosophy, the basic philosophical vocabulary, and the connections between ancient thought and later developments. The study of the Presocratics, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle provides the foundation for understanding modern and contemporary philosophy and prepares students for advanced master’s courses.

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Learning Objectives

• Acquire basic knowledge of ancient and modern philosophy;

• Develop skills in understanding and analyzing philosophical texts;

• Foster critical reflection on philosophical thought.

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Expected Learning Outcomes (Dublin Descriptors)

• D1 – Knowledge and Understanding: fundamental knowledge of ancient and modern philosophy.

• D2 – Applying Knowledge and Understanding: ability to analyze philosophical texts and ideas.

• D3 – Making Judgements: development of critical thinking about philosophical theories.

• D4 – Communication Skills: clear expression of philosophical concepts.

• D5 – Learning Skills: ability for autonomous study and preparation for advanced courses.

No prerequisites are required. Often, undergraduate students have not attended high school programs that include philosophy, and therefore they may have never studied the subject before. The course also allows the option of using a simpler, high school–level textbook for those who lack a background and need to learn the foundations of philosophical thought from a more structured, yet still high-quality, text. The lectures will provide students with the essential foundational knowledge.

The course focuses on ancient philosophers, from the Presocratics to Aristotle.

The list of topics will follow the table of contents of the main university textbook:

• Giuseppe Cambiano, Luca Fonnesu, Massimo Mori, Storia della filosofia antica. Dalla Grecia ad Agostino, Il Mulino, Bologna 2018 (or other editions) – Chapters I, II, III, IV (for all students)

Alternatively, students who have never studied philosophy at school and prefer a simpler text may use the school-level textbook:

• Giovanni Reale, Dario Antiseri, Il nuovo Storia del pensiero filosofico e scientifico, Vol. 1A, Editrice La Scuola – to be studied in its entirety up to and including Aristotle.

Other school-level textbooks may also be used, subject to approval by prof.ssa Cardullo.

An in-course assessment will be conducted, consisting of open-ended questions on selected topics covered in the lectures. The final exam will be held orally during the official exam session