Introduction to Philosophical Text Readings

In this course, students will learn the basic techniques used for reading philosophical texts in order to understand and better appreciate major and complex philosophical texts.  These basic techniques will help students recognize the differences between serious philosophical works and other literary works. Texts selected for this course represent a diversity of philosophical genres from other times and cultures. Examples of selected texts may include Plato’s Apology, Augustine’s Confessions, and Pascal’s Pensées. The main teaching approach used in this course will be based on the assignment of reading tasks, group discussions and debates. At the end of the course, students will be able to apply the reading methodology that is appropriate to various philosophical authors and schools.