General Philosophy
A series of lectures delivered by Peter Millican to first-year philosophy students at the University of Oxford. The lectures comprise of the 8-week General Philosophy course, delivered to first year undergraduates. These lectures aim to provide a thorough introduction to many philosophical topics and to get students and others interested in thinking about key areas of philosophy. Taking a chronological view of the history of philosophy, each lecture is split into 3 or 4 sections which outline a particular philosophical problem and how different philosophers have attempted to resolve the issue. Individuals interested in the 'big' questions about life such as how we perceive the world, who we are in the world and whether we are free to act will find this series informative, comprehensive and accessible.
Latest episodes
Feb 19, 2010 • 18min
1.3 Science from Aristotle to Galileo
Dive into the philosophical clash between Aristotle and Galileo, exploring how ancient beliefs shaped natural science. Discover Aristotle's theories on the four elements and their celestial interactions. Unpack the limitations of his views on motion and how they fell short of explaining physical principles. Witness the revolutionary shift as Galileo introduces experiments that redefine motion and causation, propelled by his astronomical discoveries that challenged the status quo. This journey reexamines our understanding of the universe.
4 snips
Feb 19, 2010 • 16min
1.2 The Background of Early Modern Philosophy
Explore the fascinating evolution of philosophical thought, tracing its roots from Ancient Greece through the Renaissance. Discover how mythological explanations transformed into rational discourse, shaped by the influences of the Roman Empire. Delve into the turmoil of religious wars, including the Thirty Years' War, as the quest for truth became paramount amid societal conflicts. The tension between faith and reason creates a backdrop for the philosophical dilemmas that emerged during this tumultuous period of history.
Feb 19, 2010 • 5min
1.1 An Introduction to General Philosophy
Part 1.1. Outlines the General Philosophy course, the various topics that will be discussed, and also, more importantly, the philosophical method that this course introduces to students.
