161-021 From Hermeneutics to Derrida

At least one first-year single-semester philosophy or European studies subject or permission from the Head of Department or subject coordinator.

This subject studies the theories of meaning and interpretation developed in contemporary European thought. It examines questions such as: What is it to interpret a text? How does an interpretation differ from a deconstruction? Is the meaning of a text a function of the author's intentions, or is the meaning to be identified with some representation of the world described in the text, or is it a function of the structure of the text and discourse in general? Can interpretations be true? Can conflicting interpretations both be true? Major authors discussed will be chosen from Saussure, Freud, Heidegger, Ricoeur, Gadamer, Derrida, Barthes and Foucault. On completion of this subject students should have a broad grasp of a variety of competing theories and understand what would be involved in applying them to a critical reading of texts.

• develop skills in critical thinking and analysis;

• have improved their ability to think creatively;

• develop skills in written communication.

A written assignment of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester), a 2-hour closed-book written examination 47% (due at the end of the semester) and tutorial participation 3%.