In Defence of Subjectivity

About the Course

One of the central ideas in Søren Kierkegaard’s philosophical authorship is that the attempt to overcome one’s subjectivity is neither possible nor desirable. Indeed, Kierkegaard even argues that the very attempt to overcome one’s subjectivity (in order to become “objective”) is self-refuting, as the attempt is itself a kind of subjectivity.

In this course we explore these influential and controversial ideas as they are developed in Kierkegaard’s seminal book Concluding Unscientific Postscript (1846). We seek to explain what Kierkegaard takes subjectivity to be, and how he relates it to related phenomena like “interest”, “passion”, and “concern”. We also explore how Kierkegaard’s position relates to his commitment to truth and objectivity.

Format

Once a week, you will participate in a real-time online class delivered by your instructor using video conferencing. Watch your instructor’s lecture and ask questions in interactive Q&As. All lectures are recorded and shared with students for later viewing.

Course Dates: April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30

Course Time: 11am-12:30pm Pacific time

Length: 5 weeks | 1.5 hours per week

Instructors: Anders Kraal

Prerequisite: None

About the Instructor

Dr Anders Kraal joined the Department of Philosophy at UBC in 2015. He has published papers in various areas of philosophy, including the history and philosophy of logic, the philosophy of religion, and the history of early modern philosophy. He has a particular interest in the Problem of Evil, and the philosophical writings of David Hume, Soren Kierkegaard, and Bertrand Russell.

Refund Policy

We will issue a refund or full fee transfer to another course, less a $50 administration fee, when you fill out and submit our Course Withdrawal Form at least three (3) business days before the course start date. We cannot offer refunds or course transfers for withdrawals after this deadline.