In this seminar we read the whole of Plato’s Timaeus. In this work Plato provides a systematic exposition of the universe and the position of humans in that universe. It is the only philosophical work from Antiquity which was available to Western thought since Plato wrote it. Therefore the Timaeus had a major influence on Western philosophy, religion, and science. Important themes are causality, teleology , intelligent design, the relation between soul and body, and the limits of human understanding.
Method of instruction
Seminar
Examination
*participation during the seminar (incl. preparation of texts and scholarly literature) *presentation of texts and other relevant material (25%) *research paper of 10 pages on topic relevant to the seminar (50%) *oral examination (25%)
Required reading
*T.K. Johansen, Plato\‘s Natural Philosophy. A Study of the Timaeus-Critias, Cambridge 2004 (pbk). *Materials made available on Blackboard
Admission requirements
BA in Philosophy or Classics
Timetable
see Timetable MA in Philosophy 2008-2009
Registration
Please register for this course on U-twist.See registration procedure.
Information
prof. dr. F.A.J. de Haas (f.a.j.de.haas@phil.leidenuniv.nl)
Website
Blackboard (search for code)
Website ancient philosophy: http://www.ancientphilosophers.net/
Remarks
Specialisation: History of Philosophy