Philosophy Reading Group
Reading it together, we will assess this method and whether it leads us to share Descartes’ conclusions.
This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
This course has now started
- Course Code: HP216
- Dates: 24/04/24 - 15/05/24
- Time: 18:30 - 20:00
- Taught: Wed, Evening
- Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
- Location: Online
- Tutor: Kate Banks
Course Code: HP216
Duration: 4 sessions (over 4 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
Reading through Descartes’ Discourse on Method and discussing the key topics within it.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
Descartes’ method and your method
- Early approaches to scientific method
- Descartes as the father of modern scientific rationalism
- Comparison with contemporary philosophy of science
- What is metaphysics and is it still relevant?
- Descartes’ understanding of God and the Soul.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Critically assess one of the most significant texts in modern philosophy by sharing your opinions on specific arguments in the text, as well as understanding and analysing their context (within the text and historically).
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
You will need proficiency with English, but the course is suitable for beginners in philosophy and no previous knowledge of philosophy is required. An open mind and a willingness to listen and engage with ideas with which you may not always agree are more important than specific levels of skill.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
We will be reading through the whole text of Descartes’ Discourse on Method in weekly excerpts with close reading in the class. The excerpts will be 15-20 pages long each week, and will be summarised at the start of each class. I can also provide reading guidance materials if desired.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
The course will be online via Zoom. You may want to purchase a copy of the Discourse.We will be using this translation:
Penguin Classics, 1968: Rene Descartes, Discourse on Method and the Meditations, Translated by F.E. Sutcliffe (ISBN 0-140-44206-5)
https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/34862/discourse-on-method-and-the-meditations-by-descartes-trans-fe-sutcliffe/9780140442069
Second-hand copies are usually available from Abe Books, Oxfam, World of Books, etc.
You can access the whole text for free online here (but not the F..E. Sutcliffe translation): https://www.gutenberg.org/files/59/59-h/59-h.htm.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Look out for this tutor's new philosophy reading groups starting in September 2024.
