The philosophy of race
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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
- Start Date: 03 Jun 2025End Date: 03 Jun 2025Tue (Daytime): 12:45 - 14:45In PersonFull fee £10.00 Senior fee £8.00 Concession £7.00
- Start Date: 29 Oct 2025End Date: 03 Dec 2025Wed (Daytime): 10:30 - 12:30In PersonLocation: Keeley StreetDuration: 6 sessions (over -6 weeks)Course Code: HP268Tutors: Ovett NwosimiriFull fee £169.00 Senior fee £135.00 Concession £110.00
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What is the course about?
The concept of race has played a crucial role in shaping human societies, influencing politics, culture, and personal identity - but what exactly is race? Is it a biological reality, a social construct, or something in between? How has the meaning of race changed across history and different cultures? This course explores these foundational questions through a philosophical lens, critically analyzing the origins, significance, and consequences of racial categories.
As might be expected, philosophers and scholars have committed their time to understanding the concept of race. In some instances, this has led to the denial by some of the existence of race and the logical coherence of the concept. In this course, we will examine how race has been understood in different historical contexts, examine contemporary discussions in critical race theory and engage in the works of some key thinkers such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Frantz Fanon, Charles Mills, and Kwame Anthony Appiah. Beyond theoretical questions, this course will also address pressing contemporary issues related to race, such as systemic racism, racial privilege, etc. We will also explore how race intersects with other forms of identity such as class, gender, and nationality that shape experiences of discrimination and privilege.
What will we cover?
• The meaning of Race
• Race as biological and social construct
• Works of philosophers and scholars on race
• Intersectionality of race, gender, and class.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Show and demonstrate a solid understanding of the philosophy of race.
• Be able to engage in the discourse of race open-mindedly.
• Critically analyze different philosophical theories of race and racism.
• Be able to apply philosophical concepts of race to contemporary social and political issues.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the discourse on the philosophy of race and is suitable for all levels. Therefore, all that is needed is a receptive mind, the ability to think critically, engage with the materials for intellectual discussions, and be prepared to consider and pay attention to views and positions of other students which may be totally different from yours.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Various topics will be introduced in each session. Some of the assigned readings will be presented in PowerPoint format at each session. To better grasp the materials, a critical and intellectual discussion is encouraged during these sessions. Students are encouraged to search the internet for extra readings in addition to the assigned texts.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
A pen and paper may be useful for jotting down ideas, and a prior read of the materials is encouraged.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You might be interested in Ovett's next course, on ethics and Africa, starting in February 2026.
Ovett Nwosimiri has a PhD in Philosophy. His research areas are in philosophy and ethics; particularly African philosophy, African epistemology, applied ethics, and philosophy of race. He has an interest in other philosophical areas and interdisciplinary research that bridges the gap between philosophy and technology (AI). He is a Research Associate at the African Centre for Epistemology and Philosophy of Science, University of Johannesburg
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
