Ancient Philosophy

In this Ancient Philosophy course, students read, discuss, and reflect upon philosophical ideas through the perspective of “story.” It begins with the essential question, “What is philosophy?”—a question that leads to surprise, inquiry, and a deepened appreciation of philosophy (Kreeft, xix). Students then consider why philosophy is important, including the relationship between faith and reason. Before examining individual philosophers, from the early sages through Plotinus in the third century, students hear, read, and discuss the principles of natural law as articulated by Aristotle and Saint Thomas Aquinas. This foundation helps students understand how ancient philosophers before Christ and pagan philosophers after Christ were still “seeking God” through the principles of natural law implanted in every human being. With these orienting questions in place, students study the philosophers in chronological succession: (1) the sages, (2) the Pre-Socratics, (3) Socrates and Plato, (4) Aristotle, (5) the Romans, and (6) Plotinus and Neoplatonism.