The Western Tradition: Ancient Philosophy
Course Description: This course focuses on the foundations of Western civilization by examining the philosophical thought of significant figures in ancient Greece and Rome. The course begins with writings by and about the central figures of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle and includes the work of later thinkers ranging from the Stoics to Cicero and Saint Augustine. Topics of interest for the course include the nature of the human being, the means by which we can obtain knowledge of the world around us and strive to discover the truth, and the manner in which we can attempt to live the good (or virtuous) life. In addition to the historical approach taken by this course, the role that Ancient Philosophy can play in helping us understand our own lives and exercise our own reason is considered. The course emphasizes lecture, student participation, and essay writing—discussion is highly encouraged.
Course Objectives: By the end of the course,
The student will be able to state and provide reasons for the basic positions taken by the major figures of Ancient Philosophy in the Western tradition, including Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Epictetus, Cicero, and Saint Augustine.
The student will be able to compare and contrast the positions taken by these major figures in Ancient Philosophy.
The student will comprehend and be able to express, both verbally and in writing, the significance of these positions in Ancient Philosophy with respect to our own everyday lives as well as the development of Western civilization as a whole.
The student will be able to take and defend a position of his or her own choosing regarding a significant topic in Ancient Philosophy using sound reasoning and argumentation.
Prerequisites: None
This course is typically offered in the Fall semester and is taught by Dr. Hobbs.