PHIL 210.001 – Wonder, Myth, and Reason: Introduction to Ancient Greek Science and Philosophy

Instructor: Francesco Nappo. This course meets MTWRF 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. via remote synchronous (RS) instruction.

This course offers a comprehensive overview of the origins and development of ancient Greek science and philosophy. We will read and discuss the work of the Pre-Socratics (with a special focus on Pythagoras), Plato and Aristotle. A recurrent theme throughout the course will be the role that analogy and proportion play in the scientific and ethical outlook of the Greeks. We will also discuss how the Ancient Greeks’ treatment of various philosophical questions compares to contemporary Western approaches as well as to those of various non-Western philosophical traditions. Class meetings will proceed through a mix of lectures and discussion. Some recorded material will also be made available online. High quality participation during class meetings and in online forum discussions will be a requirement and its assessment will be a significant component of the final grade for this course.