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Phil 210: Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
"At all times and in every
place, in everything that happens to us, daily life gives us the
opportunity to do philosophy." -- Plutarch
Philosophy is best done in
conversation because - in an important sense - philosophy just is
conversation. In Phil 210 we will engage in a conversation of sorts
with the most important and influential thinkers of the ancient and
medieval period. The goal of the course is twofold. First we want to
acquaint ourselves with the views of the ancients and see how they
apply to contemporary issues. Second, and more importantly, we want
to actually do some philosophy by engaging these
thinkers and their views. The class will be run in an 'engaged
lecture' format where students will be required to be prepared to
engage the texts and the claims made by the instructor in class.
The course requires that
you have an open mind and a desire to improve your critical thinking
skills. Consider what Plato has to say in the Republic:
"But can you persuade us, if we refuse to listen to you?" he said.
"Certainly not," replied Glaucon.
"Then we are not going to listen; of that you can be
assured."
If you are willing to honestly engage issues, no other prior philosophy courses
are required to succeed in this course. The course
will focus on the works of Plato and Aristotle, although significant
attention will be given to the Pre-Socratics, the Stoics and
Epicureans, and some medieval figures. Some of the content of the
course will be determined by student interest.
If you have any questions or would like additional
information, contact Prof. Hight. |
