Course Instructor: Dr Ezra Cohen - ezra.cohen@queensu.ca
In Summary:
Throughout its history, philosophy has understood its own aims and methods in different ways. But one thing has usually been agreed: what is central to philosophical inquiry is the rigorous and unrelenting use of the human powers of reason. This course aims to explore some, though far from all, of the changing and varied views concerning what philosophy is and how to practice it, as well as some of the ways reason has been used to arrive at views concerning the fundamental nature of the world, thought, knowledge, the self, action, morality and the good human life.
We will explore a selection of enduringly influential works in the history of philosophy, from Plato up to the late 20th century, giving an opportunity to get a taste of a variety of philosophical styles, approaches, sub-fields and traditions. .
Course Highlights: 
-
Engage with philosophical tools to understand, judge and critically analyze the world around you.
-
Work together in groups to share ideas and critique each other in a supportive learning environment.
-
Take part in project-based learning, with opportunities to develop your project as the course progresses. Pick a great philosopher to study and critically evaluate their work to discuss whether their arguments, and thinking still has implications for us today.
-
Be part of a learning community. Become supportive of each other, develop skills together and promote each other's learning.
Course Information:
Philosophy is generally taken to be the study of the fundamental nature of the world, thought, and action. However, throughout its history, philosophy has understood its own aims and methods in different ways. This course aims to explore many, though far from all, of the changing and varied views on what constitutes philosophy and its relevant practices over time.
This will be achieved by closely reading quite short, yet significant, extracts from various ‘great works’ of philosophy, approaching each text with the questions: what counts as philosophy, what is the aim and method of philosophy? In particular, reflecting on what constitutes the philosophical practices, that is, the doings of philosophy itself, or the application of a philosophical theory. It is an opportunity to have an introductory taste of a broad variety of philosophical approaches, styles, and traditions, and to gain the appropriate initial resources and skills to further explore areas of interest beyond the course.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course successful learners will be able to:
- Closely read philosophical texts, in order to identify, discuss, and assess the philosophical arguments therein.
- Discuss and evaluate philosophical ideas, practices and arguments
- Identify and explain some of the various philosophical aims and practices found throughout the history of philosophy, and their relationship to one another.
- Clearly communicate complex knowledge in various settings, applying both recognised formal academic approaches, along with creative and reflective ones.
- Develop the basic skills of academic philosophy writing.
Experiential and Active Learning Opportunities:
Examples of previous EAL opportunities for this course have included a guest workshop on ancient Pyrrhonian Scepticism, a visit to a Buddhist meditation centre, and a visit to the National Gallery of Scotland.
Prerequisites and Exclusions:
No more than one course from PHIL111/6.0; PHIL151/3.0
Course applicable to the following Majors/Medials/Minors:
PHIL (core)
