Philosophy
Buddhist philosophy
An introductory seminar course exploring Buddhist philosophy, its key thinkers and its approaches to questions about mind, self, reality and how to live.
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Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course examines major North Indian Buddhist philosophers, including Nagarjuna and Vasubandhu, alongside the development of Chinese and Japanese Chan and Zen traditions. Topics include suffering and its causes, the Buddha, persons and the bodhisattva, emptiness, the five skandhas, Madhyamaka, Yogacara, koans and meditation’s role in Buddhist philosophy. Teaching is primarily seminar-based, combining short tutor presentations with questions and open discussion. Some sessions may use small-group discussion arising from preparatory readings.
What you'll learn
- Explain basic Buddhist philosophical views on suffering, the nature of persons and the metaphysical significance of emptiness.
Is this course right for you?
This introductory Beginner course is intended for learners with no specific philosophical training or ability. It suits participants willing to think through and discuss ideas that may differ from their own views, with some perseverance in completing the reading provided.
- No specific previous philosophical learning is assumed.
- Participation centres on seminars, questions and open discussion.
- Preparatory reading is advised and may require sustained attention.
Before you go
- Participants may take notes using pen and paper, a laptop or a tablet.