Class Introduction to Contemporary Thought

This Curricular Unit aims to critically reflect on some of the most important currents of contemporary thought, inserted in their historical contexts. The interdisciplinary nature of knowledge provides theoretical tools for a better understanding of contemporaneity.

Reflection on the nature of contemporaneity, with a particular focus on how it is understood in the major currents of contemporary thought, such as the Enlightenment, liberalism, socialism, and conservatism. Analysis of the idea of Europe in the light of these currents and the importance of some social and political problems in European studies, such as xenophobia, migration,  the rights of minorities (sexual, religious, racial, ethnic), the aging of the population, climate change and wars.

The method is theoretical-practical, using active methodologies (problem-based learning). It is based on the presentation and exposition of the syllabus, using, when relevant, the reading and analysis of texts, in order to promote student participation in the critical discussion of the issues presented. The assessment is continuous, in accordance with the Lusófona University Assessment Regulations. The AC consists of a test, a work (written and oral) and participation in classes. The test is worth 50%, and will be taken at the end of the semester. The work has a total value of 40%. The student's performance in classes has a value of 10%. The final classification must be equal to or greater than 10 points.

[1] Bazela, Maciej. How Can Liberalism Thrive in the 21st Century? Sociológica, 2020, 35 (99), pp. 43-66.  

[2] Elias, N.. O Processo Civilizacional. Lisboa: D. Quixote, 1993.

[3] Fukyama, F. Depois dos Conservadores. A América na Encruzilhada. Lisboa: Gradiva, 2006. 

[4] Black, Conrad. Conservatism and the Paradox of Europe. Reshaping Europe in the Twenty-First Century. London. Palgrave Macmillan, 1992. 

[5] Hudson, Kate. The New European Left: A Socialism for the Twenty-first Century- London. Palgrave Macmillan, 2012.  

[6] Kant, I. Resposta à Pergunta: O que é o Iluminismo? In A Paz Perpétua e Outros Opúsculos (pp.11-19). Lisboa: Edições 70 (original publicado em 1784).

[7] Merquior, J. G. O Argumento Liberal. Rio de Janeiro: Editora Nova Fronteira, 1983.