Module description
This module will develop students’ familiarity with modern philosophy by examining the thought of Spinoza and Leibniz. Students will be introduced to the central metaphysical, epistemological, and moral claims of each philosopher, through a reading of primary texts. They will develop an appreciation of the historical context within which the philosophies of Spinoza and Leibniz took shape. The course will examine some similarities and differences between these two crucial thinkers in the modern period and explore their approaches to topics such as the nature of substance, knowledge, and morality.
Assessment details
Assessment for Study Abroad student at Kings for full year: 1 x 2 hour in person examination (100%) in Assessment Period 2
Alternative Assessment for Study Abroad students at Kings for Semester 1 ONLY: 1 x 2,500 word essay (100%) due January 2026
Educational aims & objectives
To introduce students to the views and methods of inquiry prominent in Spinoza and Leibniz’s philosophies, facilitating exploration and analysis of metaphysical, epistemic and ethical questions, within a historical context.
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding of:
- some major themes and topics in the history of modern philosophy
- various philosophical methods in the modern period
- two key figures in this tradition
Teaching pattern
One one-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks.