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Philosophy for Life: A Gentle Journey Through Wisdom

Registration is Required!

Email lifelonglearningsm@gmail.com to register

 

When:     Tuesdays: July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Where:   San Marcos Library

Time:       10:00-11:15am

Fee:          FREE

Course Description

A light, engaging public philosophy course designed for adult learners, this course offers an accessible introduction to philosophy through some of history’s greatest thinkers and most enduring questions. From Socrates to the Stoics to Eastern traditions, participants will explore how philosophy can help us live more thoughtfully, age with wisdom, and reflect more deeply on what matters most. No background in philosophy is needed… just curiosity and a willingness to wonder.

 

July 1, Session 1: What Is Philosophy? Why Should We Care?

  • Overview of philosophy as “the love of wisdom”

  • Key branches: metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, logic, aesthetics

  • How philosophy shows up in everyday life (choices, beliefs, meaning)

  • Class discussion: “What big questions have shaped your life?”

 

July 8, Session 2: The Birth of Western Philosophy – Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle

  • The “Socratic Method” and asking good questions

  • Plato’s Allegory of the Cave – reality vs. appearance

  • Aristotle’s virtue ethics – the art of living well

  • Class discussion: How do we live a good life?

 

July 15, Session 3: Stoicism and Epicureanism – Ancient Wisdom for Modern Calm

  • Core ideas: control, acceptance, simple pleasures

  • Key figures: Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Epicurus

  • Class discussion: What does acceptance mean for you?

 

July 22, Session 4: Eastern Philosophies – Harmony and the Self

  • Brief overview of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism

  • Focus on relationships, balance, mindfulness

  • Class discussion: How does eastern philosophy fit with my world view?

 

July 29, Session 5: Descartes to Kant – Knowing Ourselves and the World

  • “I think, therefore I am” and the quest for certainty

  • Kant’s idea of duty and the “moral law within”

  • Class discussion: How do we know what’s true or right?

 

Presenter: Dr. Ron Stockdreher, Lecturer, Dept. of  Philosophy, Texas State University

Information about Ron is coming soon!

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