In this study circle, we will explore the most prominent French philosophers of the 20th century, with a specific focus on existentialism and postmodernism. Our goal will be to understand these thinkers' profound impact on contemporary thought and society by reading and discussing their most significant works.
 
First, we suggest examining the existentialist tradition, delving into the main works of Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus. We will investigate the existentialists' fundamental concepts of freedom, authenticity, individuality and the absurdity of human existence. 
 
Our exploration will gradually shift towards postmodernism, investigating philosophers of the latter half of the twentieth century like Michel Foucault, Jacques Derrida, Gilles Deleuze or Jean-François Lyotard. We will explore the core ideas of postmodernism, such as the deconstruction of meaning, the critique of grand narrative, the nature of power and knowledge and the dissolution of boundaries between disciplines.
 
In our first meeting, we shall devise a list of two or three works to read during the summer and discuss afterwards, in addition to putting together a list of the group's expectations. We will meet once a month to discuss our progress.
 
Note: This course assumes no prior knowledge of philosophy and is designed to be accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds. 

Follow the link to register for the event at Folkuniversitetet.