Western Theories of Evil

Classes entitled “Western Theories of Evil” is a course familiarising students with the concepts of evil which became crucial for the development of western history of ideas. The presented theories include those concerned with western philosophy as well as theology and psychology. The programme offers the students an opportunity to face the fundamental question “What is evil as such?” or “What is the essence of evil?”. The participants are first confronted with classical concepts that attempt to bring to a common denominator or find the core of all of the observable evil in the world, and next with selected theories of moral evil that cast a light on the issue of the moral nature of a man. In the end the students can discuss the issues concerning possible destructive tendencies in human nature by referring to the taught theories and examples (from literature and films). The classes answer the need for a deeper ethical reflection on the topic of evil in the context of the current state of western culture, which seems to require a serious reconsideration of this fundamental issue. The course “Western theories of evil” enables students to make their own attempt to answer this question by reaching for the resources of European tradition of thinking.

Obtaining a passing grade for the final test. Students provide answers to questions regarding the content of lectures and indicated literature. A precondition for the pass is students’ presence during classes.

Required thresholds for satisfactory grade – approximately 50%, good – approximately 65%, very good – approximately 80%.