This summer and the upcoming school year​, students can explore the foundations of Western thought in advanced courses from Royal Fireworks Online Learning. Taught by Dr. Sharon Kaye, philosophy professor and author of our Western philosophy curriculum, these courses encourage students to engage directly with great thinkers and to contemplate enduring questions that shaped the Western tradition while receiving thoughtful, personal feedback from Dr. Kaye herself. Designed for exceptional learners, these live online courses offer rigorous discussion, meaningful mentorship, and the opportunity to think at the highest levels.

Western Philosophy: Justice, Faith, and Free Will
Student Ages: 7–12
Class Meetings: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Dates: September 2 – December 16, 2026
Cost: $550

Course Highlights:
– Read three illustrated philosophy novels.
– Explore justice through Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau.
– Examine arguments about the existence of God through Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, and Pascal.
– Compare Stoic and Epicurean views of human freedom.
– Write three essays and receive detailed written feedback.
– Engage in weekly guided discussions and structured debates.
– Create a student philosophical magazine featuring essays and creative work.

Western Philosophy: Reality, Identity, and Autonomy
Student Ages: 10–15
Class Meetings: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Dates: January 13 – May 5, 2027
Cost: $550

Course Highlights:
– Read three captivating philosophy novels.
– Explore reality and thought through Socrates, Plato, and Descartes.
– Examine personal and political identity through Locke, Newton, and Leibniz.
– Study autonomy and rationality through Rousseau, Hume, and Kant.
– Write three essays and receive detailed written feedback.
– Participate in live discussions and debates each week.
– Contribute to a collaborative philosophical magazine.

The Philosophy of Biology: The Missing Link
Student Ages: 13–18
Class Meetings: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Dates: June 3 – July 29, 2026
Cost: $300

Course Highlights:
– Study the conceptual foundations of biology through Darwin’s theory of evolution.
– Read a gripping philosophy novel exploring controversial questions.
– Examine readings from major philosophers.
– Write weekly discussion questions, as well as three essays.
– Receive written feedback on all essays.
– Participate in weekly live discussions on key ideas.

Installment Pay Option: We offer installment payment plans at no additional cost. For more information and to enroll, visit the Online Learning page.

As always, if you have questions or need assistance in selecting a course, feel free to call us at (845) 726-4444. We’re here to help. Our phone lines are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

Happy learning,
The Royal Fireworks Team