Course Description:
Supposedly, Aristotle lamented, “O my friends, there is no friend”, which reflects the double impossibility
of friendship. The lament seems to imply friendships’s impossible register in political sphere, while also
alluding to its elusive nature in the private sphere. How and why does friendship carry such importance when
defined by these two impossibilities? Friendship can break down the walls of isolation, which is a significant
feature of contemporary society. It provides a link between the private and public realms, a connection that is
often considered solely personal but which, with the breakdown of political affiliations, emerges as the only
bond capable of transcending confining familial ties.
In this seminar, we will delve into the elusive character of friendship within the philosophical and
political register. Working through classical texts and recent reflections on friendship, this seminar will
explore the challenging questions that friendship presents, as also suggested in Aristotle’s lament.
Key Themes and Inquiries:
• The ethical and moral dimensions of friendship.
• The classifications and types of friendship, as discussed by classical philosophers such as Aristotle and
Cicero.
• The influence of friendship on civic engagement.
• The tension between friendship and enmity, as explored by contemporary philosophers like Derrida.
• The connection between neighbourhood and friendship.
As we navigate these themes, we will grapple with the inherent paradoxes and impossibilities of
friendship, uncovering the unique space it occupies. Through critical analysis and philosophical discourse,
we will aim to shed light on the dual nature of friendship and its enduring importance.
Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will possess a nuanced comprehension of the concept of friendship, its
politico-philosophical register, and its implications for modern society. They will have the ability to critically
analyse how friendship is addressed in contemporary discussions, and to form their own stance on the
subject