Philosophy classes seek to cultivate a desire for truth, beauty, and goodness in the students. Students engage in a careful reading and interpretation of classical philosophical works and participate in class discussions concerning the texts. The texts and topics are chosen in such a way so as to be accessible and engaging to students of this age group.

 

7th Grade

 

Texts:

Euthyphro, by Plato

Crito, by Plato

Theaetetus, by Plato (selections)

The Republic, by Plato (selections)

Nicomachean Ethics, by Aristotle (selections)

 

Topics:

What is justice?

What makes an action right?

What is knowledge?

Is it better to be just or unjust?

What is virtue?

What makes a virtuous life a happy life?

 

8th Grade

 

Texts:

Confessions, by St. Augustine of Hippo

City of God, by St. Augustine of Hippo

Summa Theologica, by St. Thomas Aquinas

 

Topics:

What is sin?

What is evil?

What is grace?

What is the difference between philosophy and theology?

Can we be certain of the existence of God?

What is the nature of God?

What is the nature of Man?