Introduction to Western Philosophy - Course Leader

From 5th Aug 2013 to 8th Nov 2013

Unit 1 - About Philosophy

What philosophy is; why we should study it; the main areas of philosophical study; the relationship between philosophy and religion and philosophy and science.

Unit 2 - In The Beginning

The beginnings of Western philosophy; some problems and questions of the ancient Greeks; the life and death of Socrates; the Sophists.

Unit 3 - Two Theories Of Knowledge

Plato's 'Forms', the Cave and levels of reality, idealism; the philosophical naturalism of Aristotle.

Unit 4 - Epistemology - What Is Knowledge

The two major approaches to knowledge: rationalism and empiricism; the views of Descartes, Locke, Berkeley, Hume.

Unit 5 - The Question Of Identity - Who Am I ?

Major theories in the 'mind-body' debate - materialism, behaviourism, idealism, dualism, science.

Unit 6 - Philosophy Of Religion

Nature of 'God'; arguments for the existence of God; arguments against the existence of God; the argument from religious experience; miracles; faith; Pascal's Wager.

Unit 7 - Ethics: What Is It To Live A Moral Life

What it is to live a moral life; facts and values; the language we use; free will and determinism; absolutism and relativism; some ethical theories.

Unit 8 - The Meaning Of Life

Some answers to questions about meaning and purpose; religious and atheistic existentialism.

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"It lived up to it’s promise of being introduction... so much so, that I look forward to studying further in this field."
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  • Picture of Susanne Blaschka
    Susanne Blaschka - 12 May, 17:15
    What course are you doing?
    This Technology is wonderful for people who want to 'get out' without physically going through the door.

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    Joy Wheatland - 5 Jun, 16:56
    am fairly new to u3a online, but as I am getting to a more advanced age, and unable to get out much, I think this will be a godsend to me, and keep the old brain matter moving. Joy W
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    lois stacey - 11 Jun, 14:39
    This course is great fun and very informative, did not think I could do storytelling but have found information supplied very good.Lois S