Plato’s dialogues are some of the most important works in the history of philosophy.  In this course we will engage in a careful reading of a series of these dialogues to try to answer questions about Plato’s views about a number of central topics in ethics, metaphysics and epistemology.  Views suggested by Plato will be subject to critical discussion.  The course will conclude with some discussion of Plato’s influence on contemporary philosophy.  The dialogues will be read in English translation: no knowledge of Ancient Greek will be needed.

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1.  Interpret Plato's dialogues through close attention to the text.

2.  Have an understanding of the outlines of Plato's overall philosophical views and methods.

3.  Have an ability to critically discuss positions and arguments suggested by Plato's work.

One 2000 word essay (50%)  (Assesses Learning Outcomes 1-3)

One 2000 word take-home exam (50%)  (Assesses Learning Outcomes 1-3)

20 hours of lectures and 12 hours of tutorials.  Students will be expected to engage in a further 7 hours a week of independent study.

One philosophy course, or permission of course coordinator.  No incompatibilities.

Capability to use basic research techniques in the humanities and social sciences; capability to write academic essays for the humanities and social sciences.

Plato: Complete Works.  Edited by J.M. Cooper and D.S. Hutchinson.  Hackett Publishing.

No special technology requirements are envisaged.