Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/metaphysics
If you’ve ever thought about the big questions surrounding existence, reality, and the very nature of being, then Coursera’s course ‘Reality Bites: Introduction to Metaphysics’ might just be the intellectually stimulating feast you’re looking for. Designed for those who may feel intimidated by the complexities of speculative metaphysics, this course creatively aligns philosophical concepts with something highly relatable: cooking and food.
The course curriculum is thoughtfully laid out, with each of the eight modules serving as a distinct ‘bite’ that encourages deep reflection and exploration.
### module 1: A Recipe for Reality
The first module introduces metaphysics as the fundamental recipes of the universe. It explains concepts like ontology—asking what kinds of entities exist and how they relate to each other—using ingredients that many of us have in our own kitchens.
### modules 2 & 3: The Problem of Universals
In these modules, we delve into one of the oldest debates in philosophy: the problem of universals. With relatable analogies taken from our everyday lives, the course aims to demystify whether properties are transcendent or immanent.
### module 4: What Makes Us Unique?
Moving onto the problem of substance, students are encouraged to think about what distinguishes one object from another, tackling questions of individuality in a thoughtful way that connects to our own lived experiences.
### module 5: The Enigma of Time
Metaphysical discussions about time are pivotal, and this module does an excellent job in challenging our assumptions about existence—whether only present objects are real or if past and future entities hold any significance.
### module 6: The Nature of Causality
While we often take causation for granted, the course invites you to criticize Hume’s claim regarding natural necessity, providing you with multiple perspectives and compelling arguments.
### module 7: Persistence and Change
Using the Ship of Theseus as a jumping-off point, this module gracefully explores the concept of persistence over time, compelling you to reflect on your own identities and changes.
### module 8: Response-Dependence
Lastly, the discussion around response-dependence prompts us to question how we perceive qualities like color and sound—fundamentally asking how our minds interact with the external world.
Overall, ‘Reality Bites: Introduction to Metaphysics’ serves as an excellent entry point into philosophical discourse and provides valuable skills in critical thinking, argumentation, and analytical reasoning—all while keeping it relatable and engaging through the lens of cooking and enjoyment of food.
For anyone interested in philosophy, whether you’re a newcomer or someone looking to refresh your understanding, I highly recommend this course. It’s fun, thought-provoking, and offers a well-balanced blend of theory and personal reflection. Bon appétit—intellectually speaking!
Sign up on Coursera and let this course offer you a delicious taste of metaphysics.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/metaphysics