74957 - Theoretical Philosophy B (1)

Course contents

Course title: «Perception and self-experience in the phenomenological reflection of Merleau-Ponthy» In the course of lessons will be examined some of the main fundamentals of Merleau-Ponty's phenomenology: the criticism to the assumptions of the idealistic and realistic tradition of philosophy; the theme of perception and its primacy; the criticism of associationist psychology; the notion of phenomenal field; the theme of corporality; the notion of subjectivy (or counsciousness) non-Cartesian style.  
The course is scheduled in the second semester, 4th period, lecture room D, via Zamboni 34 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9-11

Readings/Bibliography

1) M. Merleau-Ponty, Fenomenologia della percezione, Bompiani, Milano, 2003, pp. 5-150, 477-582; 2) L. Vanzago, Merleau-Ponty, Carocci, 2012,
The exam texts are the same also for non-attending students.

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons, textual commentary, discussions in class on specific issues.
The course is scheduled in the second semester, 4th period, lecture room D, via Zamboni 34 (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9-11).

Assessment methods

Students will be evaluated on the basis on a viva voce. The oral exam is supposed to ascertain the student's knowledge of the assigned texts and the ability to criticize and discuss the proposed topics.

Grade assessment criteria

Grade range below 18 – Fail. Poor knowledge of core material, a significant inability to engage with the discipline. Very poor presentation.

Grade range 18-21 – Pass. Limited and superficial knowledge of the subject, a significant inability to follow the thread of the discussion. Presentation with many inadequacies.

Grade range 21-23 – Adequate. The knowledge is superficial, but the thread of the discussion has been consistently grasped. Presentation with some inadequacies.

Grade range 24-26 – Acceptable. Elementary knowledge of the key principles and concepts. The presentation is occasionally weak.

Grade range 27-29 – Good. Comprehensive knowledge. Good presentation.

30 – Very Good. Detailed knowledge with hints of critical thinking. Very good presentation.

30 cum laude – Outstanding. Excellent knowledge and depth of understanding. Excellent presentation.

Teaching tools

Blackboard, Pc, Slides projector

Office hours

See the website of Stefano Besoli