PHILOSOPHY Philosophy and the Origins of Wonder Professor: Tim Stapleton Philosophy begins, as Aristotle said, in wonder. As such, it begins anew for each of us who, in the face of all that is problematic, mysterious, and intriguing about the world, is open to the power and depth of wonder. This course, as an introduction to philosophy, is an invitation to serious philosophical wonder. It will explore the wonder of epic visions of gods and mortals, as well as the haunting elegance and power of the conflicts of time, fate, and human character as found in the great tragedies of Aeschylus and Sophocles. We will investigate together the profound but unsettling questions about the meaning and worth of the examined life as posed by Greek philosophers, about what it would mean to be stoic in the face of suffering, along with questions about faith and love, good and evil, time and eternity. All Alpha Philosophy courses fulfill the PL201 "Foundations of Philosophy" core requirement. Tim Stapleton, professor of philosophy, received his Ph.D. from Pennsylvania State University. His primary specialization is contemporary European philosophy and in the relations between philosophy and literature. He has authored and edited a number of books and articles in these areas. In 2007, he was named the Harry W. Rodgers, III, Teacher of the Year. | |