Introduction to Free Philosophy Classes Online

Summer is the perfect season for intellectual exploration and personal growth. Online platforms offer a variety of free philosophy courses that can enrich your understanding of ethical, political, and existential questions. This guide highlights some of the best courses to take this summer.

Michael Sandel's Justice Course

Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?, taught by Michael Sandel at Harvard, is a treasure trove for those interested in ethics and political philosophy. This dynamic and thought-provoking course engages with contemporary ethical dilemmas, urging students to question their moral intuitions. Sandel's teachings are known for fostering an inclusive and thought-provoking learning environment. Participants can dive into the core questions of justice, equity, and morality by exploring ethical principles and applying them in real-world scenarios.

The course is complemented by the book by Michael J. Sandel, which provides a deeper understanding of the subject matter. By pursuing this class, you not only enhance your critical thinking skills but also gain valuable insights into complex ethical scenarios.

Key Topics: Ethics, Political Philosophy, Justice, Social Contract Theory, Distributive Justice

Introduction to Critical Reasoning: A Beginner's Guide

Introduction to Critical Reasoning for Beginners by Marianne Talbot is another rewarding and accessible online course. It introduces the fundamentals of critical thinking and reasoning, essential for anyone looking to improve their logical and analytical skills.

This book is based on a recommendation from a friend and is a great starting point for those new to philosophy. It guides readers through the process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating arguments, and helping you to construct more robust and persuasive arguments of your own.

Key Topics: Critical Thinking, Logical Reasoning, Argument Analysis

Discovering a DIY Philosophy Curriculum

For the adventurous and self-driven learner, creating your own curriculum is a unique and rewarding experience. Literally inventing your own university by designing a course and enrolling in it, as my literary theory professor did, can be a life-changing venture. This course, though self-created, leveraged online resources and distinguished professors from PR Mercado University to provide a comprehensive and mostly free learning experience. By taking readings directly from books online, you can tailor the course to your specific interests and learning pace.

This approach not only democratizes education but also allows you to engage with the material in a deeply personal and meaningful way. You have the freedom to explore various philosophical frameworks and theories, making your educational journey uniquely yours.

A Course in the Nature of Death

The philosophy course on death from Yale University is a profound and insightful exploration of existential questions. If you're curious about life, death, and the meaning of being, this course is an invaluable resource.

The course delves into intricate questions about the concept of life, death, identity, and the soul. It covers topics such as:

What is life? What is death? Who are you? Is there a soul? Is there an afterlife? What if we lived forever? How should we live in face of death?

The course is presented by an exceptional professor who brings the subject matter to life, making the discussions both compelling and accessible. Engaging with these profound questions will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation of human existence and the complexity of life.

Key Topics: Existentialism, Mortality, Life and Death, Identity, Afterlife

Conclusion

No matter your philosophical bent, there's a free online course out there for you. Whether you're delving into ethics, critical thinking, or the nature of death, summer is the perfect time to embark on a journey of intellectual discovery. So why wait? Start exploring today and transform your summer into a season of enlightenment.

Note: Always verify the availability and quality of courses before enrolling. Websites like Coursera, edX, and MIT OpenCourseWare are great resources for free and vetted courses.