Ancient Philosophy

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Course Description

  • Course Name

    Ancient Philosophy

  • Host University

    Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

  • Location

    Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  • Area of Study

    Philosophy

  • Language Level

    Taught In English

  • Course Level Recommendations

    Lower

    ISA offers course level recommendations in an effort to facilitate the determination of course levels by credential evaluators.We advice each institution to have their own credentials evaluator make the final decision regrading course levels.

    Hours & Credits

  • ECTS Credits

    6
  • Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
    3
  • Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
    4
  • Overview

    COURSE OBJECTIVE
    The main aim of this course is for students to obtain critical knowledge of ancient and patristic philosophy, as well as insight in the coherence and importance of that tradition. After completing this course, students will be able to describe in their own words, and using core philosophical notions, the development of ancient and patristic philosophy, with reference to a number of relevant themes. Students will moreover be capable of analysing at a basic level the primary sources of ancient and patristic philosophy.

    COURSE CONTENT
    This course covers the beginnings of Western Philosophy, from the sixth century BCE to the seventh century CE. It provides a chronological and thematic overview of the philosophical thought of the Presocratics, the Sophists, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and Hellenistic, Neoplatonist, and Jewish-Christian thinkers. The main themes discussed are philosophy of nature, epistemology, logic, metaphysics, and practical philosophy.

    TEACHING METHODS
    Interactive lectures and close reading seminars. Attendance is required for first year philosophy students.

    TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
    Weekly assignments measuring student progress (formative). Two written assignments based on close reading (20%). Written final exam, testing knowledge of the literature treated (80%).

Course Disclaimer

Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.

Some courses may require additional fees.

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