Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/metaphysics
Ever found yourself pondering the fundamental nature of reality while chopping vegetables or wondering about the essence of an egg while whisking it into a soufflé? If so, Coursera’s “Reality Bites: Introduction to Metaphysics” might just be the course for you. This unique offering, taught by a philosophy professor with a flair for the relatable, demystifies the often-intimidating field of metaphysics by grounding its core concepts in the everyday experiences of the kitchen.
The course brilliantly frames metaphysics as the ‘ingredients and recipes of the world,’ exploring what kinds of entities exist and how they relate. It’s a refreshingly accessible approach that immediately sets the stage for a deeper dive into complex philosophical problems. The syllabus is a culinary tour of metaphysical thought, starting with the very definition of metaphysics and its foundational principles like parsimony and ontological commitments.
From there, we move on to the ‘problem of universals,’ using examples that might involve shared properties of kitchen utensils or ingredients. The module on ‘Substance’ tackles the question of what makes an object unique, perhaps drawing parallels to how distinct dishes can be made from similar base ingredients. The concept of ‘Time’ is explored through the lifecycle of food – from raw ingredients to a finished meal, and how we perceive its passage. ‘Causality’ is examined through the cause-and-effect of cooking processes, and ‘Persistence’ uses thought experiments like the Ship of Theseus, which could easily be re-imagined with a beloved, constantly repaired kitchen appliance.
The course doesn’t shy away from more intricate topics like ‘Composition’ – when do separate ingredients truly form a new whole? – and ‘Response-dependence,’ which touches on how our perception of taste and smell (secondary qualities) relates to the objective properties of food. Each module is designed to whet your appetite for philosophical inquiry, making abstract ideas tangible and engaging.
What makes ‘Reality Bites’ truly stand out is its pedagogical approach. It doesn’t just present information; it encourages reflection. The kitchen analogy serves as a constant anchor, ensuring that even the most speculative ideas remain tethered to a recognizable reality. While it doesn’t offer advanced philosophical training, it provides a solid, enjoyable introduction for anyone curious about the big questions of existence, identity, and reality. I highly recommend this course to beginners in philosophy or anyone looking for a novel and engaging way to understand metaphysics. It’s a truly satisfying intellectual meal!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/metaphysics