Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/plato-dialogues
Have you ever found yourself questioning the very beliefs that shape your life? If so, Coursera’s course ‘Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato’ might just be the perfect fit for you. This engaging six-week course dives deep into three of Plato’s dialogues: ‘Euthyphro’, ‘Meno’, and Book I of ‘Republic’. Designed for learners from all backgrounds, this course enticingly combines ancient philosophy with contemporary moral theory and psychology, enabling you to challenge your beliefs critically.
The course begins with ‘Euthyphro’, where Socrates debates the concept of holiness with Euthyphro, a priest. The dialogue introduces participants to the Socratic method and sets the stage for intricate discussions about morality. It’s an excellent opener that poses crucial questions about ethics and introduces philosophical inquiry.
As you progress into the second week, you delve into Plato’s ‘Meno’, a dialogue exploring whether virtue can be taught. The course encourages you to ponder definitions of virtue while engaging with seductive sophistry. Throughout the lessons, the complexity of virtue is dissected, showing you that sometimes, knowing what something is can be more complicated than it seems.
The focus then shifts to ‘Republic’, specifically Book I, where Socrates investigates the nature of justice with several figures who each hold flawed perspectives. This part of the course is remarkable for its exploration of justice as an essential ideal in society, and it provides a foundation for deeper philosophical understanding of political structures.
The last two weeks expand the discussion beyond Plato, bridging the ancient with contemporary thoughts in moral psychology, led by notable figures like Jonathan Haidt and Joshua Greene. You’ll explore how moral psychology aligns and conflicts with Plato’s insights – a fascinating endeavor that enhances your understanding of both philosophical traditions.
Ultimately, this course is much more than just an intellectual exercise; it’s a journey that encourages critical thinking, challenges your beliefs, and imparts time-tested wisdom from the ancients. With a blend of philosophical dialogue and moral theory, ‘Reason and Persuasion’ stands out as a must-take course for anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of ethics and morality.
Whether you’re a lifelong learner or just starting on your philosophical journey, this course will equip you with the necessary tools to dissect arguments and understand your moral landscape. So grab a notebook, prepare to engage deeply with Plato’s timeless dialogues, and prepare to expand your worldview.
Recommendation: I highly recommend enrolling in this course if you’re looking to sharpen your critical thinking skills and gain fresh insights into the philosophical questions that have intrigued humanity for centuries.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/plato-dialogues