Great Ideas of the Modern Age

This lecture series examines central ideas of the modern age both as philosophical concepts and through concrete historical examples. The lecturer is Dr. Mika Pekkola. Free admission.

27.10. Rationalism. In the modern age, reason replaced religious traditions as the determining factor in society's direction. What is reason, and what impact has rationality had on the formation of modern societies?

3.11. Liberalism. The liberal system, based on individual freedom and market freedom, has formed the foundation of the Western rule-based order. What are the values of liberalism, and what contradictions exist between values and practice in societies that consider themselves liberal?

10.11. Conservatism. As traditional ways of life, religious beliefs, and local ties disappeared, many began to long for a world where the "great chain of being" was intact and communities had a clear moral code. What does conservatism seek to preserve - and is it possible to preserve something that no longer exists?

17.10. Nationalism. The idea of the nation has been one of the modern age's central unifying ideas and represents a counterforce to both individuality and foreign influences. Why has nationalism's appeal been sufficient to mobilize large masses of people from century to century?

24.11. Communism and anarchism. Forces fighting against the hierarchical structures of the capitalist economic system and the nationalist nation-state have radically shaped modern societies. What do communism and anarchism actually mean, and do they have a future?