An Introduction to Philosophy

Gain the analytical tools needed to navigate “Big Questions” regarding ethics, meaning, truth and technology with clarity and resilience.

In this course you will be introduced to fundamental concepts through a contemporary lens and explore issues such as who to trust in a post-truth landscape, what AI means for the future of humanity, our duties towards others, and how to maintain mental fortitude in an increasingly overwhelming world.

We will ground our inquiry in both Western and global traditions and use resources like podcasts, film, and AI tools to make philosophy accessible and actionable.

Please note that this course includes material and / or discussion of sensitive and potentially challenging topics that some learners may find upsetting.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Critically evaluate how foundational philosophical concepts apply to contemporary global issues and digital media
• Analyse and deconstruct complex arguments within modern public discourse using formal and informal logical tools to identify fallacies and cognitive biases
• Synthesise diverse intellectual traditions, including Western and Non-Western frameworks, to formulate reasoned ethical responses to 21st-century dilemmas
• Articulate the relationship between abstract philosophical theory and practical, real-world challenges like AI ethics and environmental crisis.

This course is for curious lifelong learners and professionals seeking to sharpen their critical thinking and develop a more resilient, reasoned perspective on contemporary issues.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support.

No previous study of philosophy is required or presumed. You need only bring an open mind.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course is due to start, unless the course is full or cancelled.