THIS IS A ONE-SEMESTER COURSE.

This course is based on a series of three illustrated chapter books about a group of preteen friends who embark on intellectual adventures. The first book, Xperiment, examines the nature of justice through Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau. The second book, Finding Faith, concerns arguments for and against the existence of God, drawing on Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, and Pascal. The third book, Will Power, explores Stoic versus Epicurean views of human freedom.

Students will read each of the three books in succession and will write an essay at the end of each book, with feedback from the author of the series, who is also the course instructor. During the live class meetings, the instructor will explain the philosophical background for the assigned chapters and conduct a discussion of the content contained within them. The students will then be invited to debate key issues. Throughout the semester, the students will have the opportunity to create a philosophical magazine containing their essays and other artistic or literary work inspired by the course.

Class Meetings: Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Dates: August 28 – December 18

Student Expectations: Students will submit their answers to open-ended discussion questions before class each week.

Student Support: The instructor is available via email.

Feedback/Assessment: Oral feedback will be provided during class. Written feedback will be provided on the essays.

Materials/Supplies: Students will need the three philosophy novels Xperiment, Finding Faith, and Will Power, as well as the accompanying guidebooks. You can purchase a special package of all of these books here.