The Master's degree course "Philosophy: Environment - Society - Criticism" opens up a new interdisciplinary approach to philosophy. The main focus is on how knowledge and philosophy can be applied in a contemporary way within the framework of forward-looking critical reflection in order to reshape ecological and social contexts.
Climate change, species extinction, scarcity of resources on a global scale: these are the pressing potential threats to our interaction with nature. The internal connection between these threats and a global growth paradigm, the momentum of technical developments and imperial social conditions is increasingly coming into focus. There is a fundamental need for action here, which includes basic philosophical reflection. In the relevant fields of action such as climate protection, nature conservation, species protection and animal welfare, it is becoming increasingly clear that conventional boundaries are no longer valid. The protection of the environment must therefore be considered together with the way in which social life is organized, as traditional oppositions such as those between nature and society must be overcome.
This is where the Master's course in Philosophy comes in. It is geared towards an increased demand for philosophical expertise in the field of environmental debates (natural philosophy and environmental ethics) and critical social analysis. It takes particular account of the interaction and interlinking of both areas, as this represents a significant desideratum.
The aim of the course is to develop research-oriented and interdisciplinary reflection skills on current topics in environmental and social theory based on solid philosophical knowledge. Students acquire knowledge and content-related skills in the following areas:
- Natural philosophy
- environmental theory and environmental ethics
- philosophical anthropology
- cultural theory and aesthetics
- Critical social theory and politics.
In close cooperation with relevant disciplines, the Master's program ensures interdisciplinary competence and critical potential, which are most in demand in today's dynamic knowledge society in academic and many non-academic professional fields. The program thus offers both the qualification for a doctorate and entry into research as well as numerous career prospects beyond the academic environment.