6 Introduction to Philosophy

This first Module will introduce you to philosophical questioning through the example of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, as presented in a dialogue written by his follower Plato. We’ll use that ancient work to frame a basic distinction and set of questions that will occupy us throughout the term: how does reasoning about matters of value (which includes ethical reasoning) differ from reasoning about matters of objective fact (which includes scientific reasoning)?

As you will find me saying over and over, this is NOT a question about opinions vs. facts. So, what is it? Read on and find out…