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PHIL 375 Ancient Greek Philosophy

This course examines the birth of European philosophy in ancient Greece. We will study the two Greek thinkers who are still regarded by many as the greatest of all philosophers - Plato and Aristotle - and may also examine the work of other thinkers who came before and after them. Topics include the nature of reality, the ways we might come to have knowledge, and the good life for human beings.
4 Undergraduate credits

Effective January 27, 2000 to present

Meets graduation requirements for

Learning outcomes

General

  • Analyze and critique philosophical works drawn from several ancient traditions, focusing on Plato and Aristotle as well as scholars who came before and immediately after them.
  • Locate these works in the political, social and economic contexts in which they were created, and explore how, in turn, these works were constitutive of ensuing philosophical traditions, understanding, at an advanced collegiate level, the complex relation between these contexts and intellectual work.

Minnesota Transfer Curriculum

Goal 6: The Humanities and Fine Arts

  • Demonstrate awareness of the scope and variety of works in the arts and humanities.
  • Understand those works as expressions of individual and human values within a historical and social context.
  • Respond critically to works in the arts and humanities.
  • Engage in the creative process or interpretive performance.
  • Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.