About This Course

Welcome to the Introduction to Philosophy course, where you will embark on a journey through some of the most profound and thought-provoking ideas in human history. This course explores fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, reason, and the nature of reality. We will examine the thoughts of great philosophers from ancient times to modern-day thinkers, analyzing their perspectives on key topics such as the mind-body problem, moral philosophy, political theory, and the nature of knowledge.

In this course, you will learn to critically engage with philosophical arguments, evaluate different schools of thought, and develop your own reasoned positions on complex issues. Through reading classical texts and engaging in thoughtful discussions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how philosophical thinking shapes our worldview and influences various aspects of society, from politics to science and culture.

Whether you're a student preparing for further philosophical studies, a professional seeking to enhance your critical thinking skills, or simply someone interested in exploring life's big questions, this course is designed to guide you through the essential concepts and challenges of philosophy.

By the end of the course, you will have a solid foundation in philosophical reasoning, equipping you with the tools to explore, question, and engage with the world from a deeper, more reflective perspective.

Requirements

• A curious mind and a willingness to engage with complex ideas.

• An interest in exploring fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reality.

• No prior philosophy experience is required, but an open mind and a readiness to critically analyze different perspectives will be helpful.

Course Staff

Dr. Zhang Wei
Lead Instructor
Dr. Wei holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Peking University. With over 5 years of teaching experience, she specializes in ethics, epistemology, and philosophy of mind. Her research interests include practical philosophy and the application of philosophical thinking to contemporary issues.

Li Ming
Teaching Assistant
Li Ming is a graduate student pursuing an M.A. in Philosophy at Fudan University. He has a strong interest in logic and political philosophy and enjoys helping students engage with philosophical ideas and develop their critical thinking skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What web browser should I use?

The HSIC platform works best with current versions of Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari. See our list of supported browsers for the most up-to-date information.

How long is this course?

The course is designed to be completed over 8-12 weeks, with approximately 4-6 hours of study per week. However, you can progress at your own pace.

For more information don't hesitate to get in touch with the academic assistant.