Macquarie University

PHL254: Freedom and Alienation

What does freedom mean to us as modern individuals? Is there more freedom in modern society than in other forms of society? Does modern society in fact increase alienation rather than freedom? This unit explores these questions by examining the work of key philosophers such as Kant, Hegel, Marx, and Nietzsche. We explore Kant's idea of freedom as moral and individual autonomy, showing its connection with contemporary theories of liberalism and its relevance for current debates in international politics. We then turn to Hegel's critique of the individualist notion of autonomy, and his account of the social and political conditions of individual freedom. We revisit recent debates around the Hegelian idea of an alleged end of history, the historical victory of liberal democracy over other forms of human community. We then examine Marx's reception of Kant and Hegel, and his radical critique of modern society, focusing on his account of alienation in our social, economic, and political life. Finally, we explore Nietzsche's diagnosis of modern culture and society, and consider his response to the problem of overcoming nihilism in modernity. Throughout the unit we aim to highlight the ongoing influence of these important theories of freedom and alienation and to show their continuing relevance for contemporary moral, social, and political problems.

Timetable Information

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