Philosophy. Study the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality and existence.

From its beginnings, Latin American philosophy exhibited a unique perspective on many important issues in politics, ethics, humanism, imagination and the human relationship to the natural world. During this course, we will trace its origins from the Pre-Columbian Indians and Post-Columbian Spanish occupation, through revolution and independence to the present. We will examine the works of key philosophical and literary thinkers from Latin America.

Aims

The aim of this course is for you to confidently discuss the origins and complexities of Latin American philosophy. You will also make the connection between the history of Latin American philosophy, and the general history of world philosophy.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

• identify the main features of Latin American philosophy
• discuss the philosophical ideas of Latin American philosophy
• identify the different kinds of literary movements in Latin American poetry and novels
• discuss the implications of these ideas for our own world.

Content

Introduction to Latin American philosophical history

• The influence of Spanish philosophers
• The Colonial period
• The impact of Positivism
• The philosophy of liberation, race and social identity
• Marxism
• Contemporary Issues

Introductio