History of Modern and Contemporary Philosophy
Course code
HIF6007.HT
old course code
Course title in Estonian
Filosoofia ajalugu uusajast tänapäevani
Course title in English
History of Modern and Contemporary Philosophy
ECTS credits
6.0
Assessment form
Examination
lecturer of 2026/2027 Autumn semester
Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.
lecturer of 2026/2027 Spring semester
Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.
Brief description of the course
The course offers a historical insight into the fundamental questions and methods of modern and contemporary Western philosophy, focusing primarily on classical thinkers and schools of thought (including Hume, Kant, Hegel, Nietzsche, Russell, Frege, Heidegger, Sartre, as well as empiricism, romanticism, positivism, pragmatism, existentialism, and analytical philosophy). In addition, the course provides interdisciplinary perspectives, demonstrating how philosophical ideas have influenced the development of science, political theories, society and its values, art, and culture. Discussions and independent assignments encourage students to apply philosophy to other areas of life and personal experience. Together, we will explore fundamental philosophical questions such as: What is the nature of knowledge and truth? How can we distinguish between reality and appearance? How can we conceptualize justice, morality, and freedom? What is the role of philosophy in the modern world?
Learning outcomes in the course
Upon completing the course the student:
- is familiar with the major philosophers, philosophical schools, and key ideas of modern and contemporary philosophy and can summarize, compare, and critically analyze them;
- understands and can analyze the primary ontological, metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical questions in philosophy;
- has acquired foundational knowledge of philosophical key concepts;
- expresses themselves clearly, purposefully and argumentatively, both orally and in writing, and participates in debate;
- is prepared to independently discuss philosophical questions and understands their connections to various fields and broader societal issues.
- is familiar with the major philosophers, philosophical schools, and key ideas of modern and contemporary philosophy and can summarize, compare, and critically analyze them;
- understands and can analyze the primary ontological, metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical questions in philosophy;
- has acquired foundational knowledge of philosophical key concepts;
- expresses themselves clearly, purposefully and argumentatively, both orally and in writing, and participates in debate;
- is prepared to independently discuss philosophical questions and understands their connections to various fields and broader societal issues.
Teacher
Rita Niineste
Study programmes containing that course