VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

851-0353-00L 3 Credits DS D-GESS
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

What is Life? Approaches from a Scientific, Philosophical and Theological Perspective (UZH)

Was ist Leben? Annäherungen aus naturwiss., phil. und theologischer Perspektive (Universität Zürich)

No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student. UZH Module Code: 23SS024 Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:21:27

Abstract

What is life? Attempts to answer this question are numerous. Is it the self-movement of the soul that constitutes the principle of life (Aristotle)? Is it an "élan vitale" that underlies life (Bergson)?

Objective

In the sciences, highly complex theories of processual forms of organisation of life are advocated, in which the focus is not on definitions of life, but on various characteristics (such as energy and metabolism, self-regulation, communication/irritability, reproductive capacity, etc.) in their interactions. In theology, life is understood, among other things, as a gift of the Creator God, who makes humans and animals living beings through his breath of life. - The seminar takes the first steps towards answering the question "What is life? - from scientific, philosophical and theological perspectives. For each perspective, selected classical positions will be studied and brought into an interdisciplinary discussion. More current topics such as "artificial life" and extraterrestrial life will also be addressed.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
DS

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Anmeldemodalitäten, Datum und Ort dieser Leistungskontrolle werden ausschliesslich von der UZH festgelegt.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar Was ist Leben? Annäherungen aus naturwiss., phil. und theologischer Perspektive (Universität Zürich)
**Course at University of Zurich**
  • Tue 10:15-12:00
  • Tue None-None
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
    • Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)