The course proposes selected topics in the field of advanced study on modern and contemporary architecture’s theory, critic, philosophy and aesthetics, through the critical readings of text as well as the analysis of selected case studies. Quoting M.K. Hays «Our question is not “How does modern architecture reflect the conditions of modernity”, but rather, positioned in modernity, “What can architecture (as subject, as object, as technique) do?”».

The course will try to answer to this question investigating architecture from historical, critical and cross-disciplinary points of view. Over the years, the program has been continually developed and revised, placing itself within the very current arguments, debates and practices.

The course is organized through lectures, seminars and debates and offers to students the chance to expand their knowledge and critical approach.

The final exam is oral and the students have to present a thesis concerning topics previously defined.

During the semester the students are required to present two ex-tempore about topics discussed during the lectures and bibliographical references.