Introduction to Philosophy

Course Summary

What is philosophy? What is its value? Join Dr Douglas Adeney to consider these questions and some selected philosophical issues concerning the good life. Are we all ultimately motivated by self-interest, as is often held? Is the good life a life of pleasure? In teaching the young, should we provide education rather than indoctrination, and what exactly is the difference?

Douglas Adeney lectured in philosophy for many years at Melbourne State College and then the University of Melbourne. Since 2011 he has greatly enjoyed teaching numerous CAE philosophy courses. A non-academic friend of his was once asked by his wife what Doug did for a living. On hearing that he was a philosopher, she said ‘Oooh, he must be very intelligent … Or is he just weird?’ Come and decide for yourself.