PHIL 200 - Ancient and Medieval Philosophies

Cross-Listed as CLAS 200

Introduction to the central problems, figures and schools of Ancient Greek, Roman, and Chinese Philosophy and the subsequent development of Medieval philosophy: Jewish, Christian, and Islamic. We begin with a brief examination of the beginning of western philosophy among the so-called ‘Pre-Socratics’, and then look more closely at the philosophies of Plato and Aristotle, as well as Greek women philosophers like Hypatia. And we will also discuss important Classical Chinese and Roman Philosophies, followed by Medieval philosophy in several traditions. Our focus will include the following problems, since they were of central concern to the Ancients and the Medievals and continue to be studied by philosophers of all traditions to this day: Origin and Structure of the World (Cosmos); Knowledge and Opinion; The Origin and Function of the State. Love, Sex, and Friendship; The Mind and Soul; Happiness and the Good Life; Freedom and Responsibility; God and gods. Coursework: short papers, reading responses, take-home exams. Occasionally (4 Credits)