Winter 2024: Introduction to Philosophical Thinking

We must contend not only with facile dismissals, today, of the philosophical habit, but because these, often, are rooted in profound misunderstandings about the very nature of human existence, we must uproot these too. Most central to the constitution of a good philosophical understanding, it will prove, is the ability to ask the right questions in the right way.

Because inquiry in philosophy needs no specialized training, it is often assumed that its practice requires minimal to no training at all. Indeed, one could assume that very little is required for the professional philosopher beyond the ability to read, perhaps in a few languages, to take a course or two in logic, and to practice a rhetorical ability to seem profound. But even if, in a certain respect, this is so—certainly, it seems that many within the academy possess little more in the way of genuine capability, regardless of their institutional credentials—the fact is, for the purposes of true philosophical habit, time and study alone are not enough.

Rather, one needs to learn to ask questions and to ask them in the right way.

Kemple 2022: Introduction to Philosophical Principles, 3.

It is just this ability—questioning well—that this seminar aims to accomplish. View the syllabus to learn more, and register below! This seminar is free for all enrolled Lyceum Institute members. Additionally, digital copies of all texts will be provided. Though not all are equal, students may use any translation of Plato they possess.