Our catalog of courses is complete. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
This course examines the beginning of philosophical thought as it arose in Ancient Greece, a phenomenon that led to the development of science, mathematics, psychology, and a host of others, ultimately forming the intellectual basis of Western Civilization (and to some degree, Catholic theology as well).
Total classes: 15
Prerequisite: None
Suggested grade level: 9th to 12th
Suggested credit: 1 full semester Philosophy, Ancient Philosophy, or Ancient History
Description
This course examines the beginning of philosophical thought as it arose in Ancient Greece, a phenomenon that led to the development of science, mathematics, psychology, and a host of others, ultimately forming the intellectual basis of Western Civilization (and to some degree, Catholic theology as well). A significant portion of the class will be devoted to studying the Pre-Socratic philosophers, followed by the Sophists, and ending with an overview of how this culminated in the famous works of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
Outline
Week 1 – Introduction
Weeks 2 through 8 – Pre-Socratics
Weeks 9 through 10 – Sophists
Week 11 – Socrates
Weeks 12 through 13 – Plato
Weeks 14 through 15 – Aristotle
Materials and Homework
Course Materials: All materials provided free by the instructor as downloadable PDF files.
Homework: Homework will involve periodic quizzes involving fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice questions and two comprehensive exams. Expect to spend around 1 hour per week outside of the classroom on homework.
