Ways into philosophy: great thinkers

This course introduces the ideas of major philosophers from Plato to Wittgenstein. How does Western philosophy differ from religion and science? What problems have the great philosophers tried to solve?

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Key course information

Dates
09/01/12 - 19/03/12

Day(s)
Mon

Duration
11 weeks

Time
19:40 - 21:40

Fees
Full fee: £115
Senior fee: £115
Concession: £33

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HP002

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This course introduces and explores the ideas of some of the most important figures in the history of Western philosophy.

What topics will we cover?

A broad range of philosophers will be covered, including Plato, Descartes, Kant, Nietzsche, and Wittgenstein.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- identify the distinctive ideas of the philosophers covered on the course
- explain the problems that occupied these philosophers
- explain and assess their basic solutions.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Although the course complements Ways into Philosophy: Key Themes, no previous knowledge is required. However an enthusiasm for learning as well as an open and critical mind will enhance your enjoyment and benefit from this course. On joining this course you should be able to read and comment upon extracts from a philosophical text. You should be prepared to discuss this reading in class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course is based on Bryan Magee's The Great Philosophers (Oxford University Press). Each class will focus on one chapter, and will consist of short lecture-style presentations, pair, group and class discussion. There will also be opportunity to participate in online forums to explore topics further.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Bryan Magee's The Great Philosophers (Oxford University Press).

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. Student learning will be assessed mainly through discussion. Exercises in class will be monitored by the tutor to ensure comprehension and progress. There will be informal opportunities for you to discuss your progress.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Ways into Philosophy: Thinking Straight.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Select another date / day / time

Dates	Day(s)	Time	Duration	Fees	Snr	Conc	Code	Availability
09/01/12 to 19/03/12	Mon	19:40 - 21:40	11 weeks	£115	£115	£33	HP002	Finished	» Select
10/01/12 to 20/03/12	Tue	10:00 - 12:00	11 weeks	£110	£62	N/A	HP003	Finished	» Select