PHILOSOPHY
The Consolations of Philosophy
SPRING QN220
Thursday
Sandra Bonetto
Can philosophy really console, inspire and motivate us? Can philosophy help us to deal with such common human problems as not having enough money? Having a broken heart? Feeling inadequate? Being unpopular? Feeling frustrated? Dealing with difficulties? This course, which is loosely based on Alain de Botton’s book of the same title, will explore the teachings of several philosophers in search of answers to such commonly experienced problems. The aim is to actively engage students in lively discussion and debate, to promote critical thinking, self-awareness and personal growth. Above all, the course endeavours to connect learning to lived experience and show how philosophy can help to promote human well-being.
| BELFIELD | ||
| 8 Thursdays | Jan 31, Feb 7, 14, 21, 28, Mar 7, 14, 21 | 7.30pm - 9.30pm |
| FEE €155 |
Print Open Learning Application Form 2012.13 or ring (01) 716-7123 for Laser/credit card payment |
Tutor Details:
Sandra Bonetto (BA, MA, PhD) has been a tutor and lecturer of philosophy to undergraduate students and adult learners for the past 11 years. She has won several scholarships and academic awards. Her publications include articles on Nietzsche, Shakespeare and Hegel. Sandra’s particular philosophical interests are in ethics, political philosophy and the philosophy of literature.
Provisional list of key topics to be covered:
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Being Unpopular
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Not Having Enough Money
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Frustration
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Inadequacy
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Dealing with a Broken Heart
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Coping with Difficulties
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Unhappiness
Who is the course for?
Anyone interested in discovering how philosophy can help us in our everyday lives, i.e. how philosophy can console and motivate us.
Reading List:
The following is a selection of recommended texts for those interested in reading further around the course content. We advise that you do not buy books in advance of the course as your tutor will discuss the list and suggest the most relevant reading for particular interests.
Primary Text:
Alain de Botton, The Consolations of Philosophy (London: Hamish Hamilton, 2000).
Selected reading materials will be provided in class
