What does it mean to be happy? Are all disputes over art pointless? How is the thought that you are having right now related to your physical brain and body?

These questions give a small flavour of the diversity of philosophical discussion. Introduction to Philosophy sets out to do two things: give you a solid grounding in what some of the greatest philosophers in history have had to say about these issues; and provide you with the skills to challenge and interrogate those ideas, developing your own perspective.

Typical topics covered include moral philosophy; political philosophy; ancient philosophy; continental philosophy; aesthetics; epistemology and metaphysics. By the end of the course you will have developed as a thinker and conversation partner; you will also have a better idea of which parts of philosophy you wish to develop your interests in.