Learning outcomes

Profound examination and critical reflection on the relevant topics treated during the course.

Program

Contents:

The Fetish-Character of Wares (goods/commodities) and the Arts

Some of the most important and decisive works of the European Hegelian and Marxist tradition will be read, commented on and discussed during the lessons in order to actualize a strong reflection on the present problem of the crisis of culture. The key-question is: Culture for what reason? Which might be its importance in an alienated, reified, regressive and at the end fetishized world, which is the consequence of a form of production of wealth like the present global capitalism. In the last 25 years this economic system has widely invaded and perverted even culture, education and formation to a point, where every phenomenon is considered to be nothing else than a ware or merchandise. The proposed texts might offer important concepts and theoretical impulses for a critical confrontation with the present situation.

Examination Methods

The exam consists in an oral discussion with the teacher.