911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ

Please note - this course is taught at the Horsebridge Arts Centre in Whitstable ().

Have you ever wondered about the big questions in life: about truth and knowledge, the difference between right and wrong, or the purpose and meaning of life?

Philosophers have long wrestled with some of the most fundamental questions faced by humanity, and on this short course we will explore how they have approached and attempted to answer them. In doing so, we will discover what some of the greatest thinkers in human history have had to say, from Socrates and Plato to Kant and Nietszche. Over the weeks, we will begin to think about the nature of philosophy itself and how philosophical ideas relate to our practical lives, shaping how each of us sees the world, ourselves and others.

The course offers an opportunity not only to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the history and nature of philosophy as a field of enquiry, but also to discuss how our changing answers to philosophical questions have helped to shape the modern world, and why these questions continue to matter for our lives today and for the future.

No previous experience of philosophy is necessary and the course will be filled with discussion and debate, responding to the interests of the group as the course develops over the weeks.

Term dates

•  Autumn Term: Wednesday 14 October 2026 until Wednesday 16 December 2026

For course content enquiries: Contact the course tutor, Greg Artus, at g.artus@imperial.ac.uk

For enrolment and booking enquiries: Contact Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).