Aims

The aim of this course is to examine the cultural dimension of philosophical reflection and the role of interculturalism in philosophical thinking. Furthermore, the course introduces the students to the basic tenets of non-Western thought.

Main themes

We shall proceed in two steps:
1. An examination of Western philosophical notions concerning interculturalism and philosophy's interest in foreign cultures;
2. An examination of selected Asian and African conceptions of interculturalism and the role of non-Western cultures in the philosophical project as such.

Content and teaching methods

The lecture aims at presenting contemporary philosophical authors who have thought about the question of intercultural dialogue or whose thought has been nourished simultanuously in different cultural traditions. The issue is to explore the precursory signs of the " universel humanism " that was the object of André Malraux's endeavour. Since the Japanese philosophers of the 20th century have been true forerunners in this perspective, their work will be particularly put into light.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Pre-requisites: An introductory philosophy course and reading knowledge of English.

Assessment: There will be an oral exam based on the essay written by the student. This does not mean that the student can forgo knowledge of the content of the lectures.

Supporting material: Bibliographical references given during the course.

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