European Intellectual History since Nietzsche

Explore the seductive nature of Hegelian philosophy and its influence on Marxism. Discover how Marx's thoughts on alienation and class struggle arose from the industrial age's exploitation. Delve into the transformative encounter between Marx and Engels and how it molded revolutionary ideas. Learn about the historical shift from feudalism to class-based society and the role of the proletariat in driving change. The discussion intertwines personal experiences with students' fascination and the paradoxes of Marxism, revealing its enduring impact on modern thought.

Delve into Hegel's philosophy with a twist, as modern themes are humorously linked to the Barbie movie. Explore the interplay of Hegel's ideas and the French Revolution, revealing the depths of enlightenment and romanticism. Discover the challenge of connecting mind and reality, critiquing the Enlightenment's limits. Uncover the dynamics of Hegelian dialectics, where historical context and evolution of consciousness reshape understanding. Finally, engage with the complexities of language in philosophy, showcasing identity, recognition, and our interconnectedness.

Dive into the clash between Enlightenment rationality and Romantic passion. Discover how philosophers like Hobbes and Rousseau shaped views on human nature from brutishness to purity. Explore the optimistic Enlightenment belief in knowledge as a path to progress. Unravel Kant's bridge between realism and idealism, revealing our perception limits. Witness the revolutionary leap from Descartes to Kant, where free will and morality take center stage. This interplay of reason and emotion continues to influence modern thought.

Dive into the transformative ideas of the Enlightenment and Romanticism! Reflect on the shift from divine authority to human reason and explore the fascinating thoughts of Descartes on epistemology. Discover how deism melded old beliefs with modern thinking, advocating for religious tolerance. Uncover Rousseau's complex legacy and the impact of liberalism in shaping contemporary discourse. With humor and depth, this journey explores the nuances of human agency and the importance of compassion in understanding diverse beliefs.

The podcast covers topics such as the transition to modernity, the death of God, Marxism-Leninism, psychoanalysis, existentialism, and deconstruction. It also discusses the format of lectures, course logistics, and the role of controversial figures in history. The speaker explores the concept of modernity and its challenges in European intellectual history.