Philosophy: The Process Philosophers- AN Whitehead, Charles Hartshorme, John B Cobb

About this course

The course examines process philosophy as an alternative to views of reality based on fixed substances, focusing instead on change, relationships and becoming. It introduces the historical background of process thought before considering Whitehead’s metaphysics, including actual occasions and creativity, Hartshorne’s process theology, and Cobb’s applications to ethics and society. Teaching combines tutor presentations, selected philosophical extracts and whole-class discussion. Topics include science, religion, freedom, environmental ethics, sustainability and interfaith dialogue, with opportunities to compare viewpoints and develop informed responses.

What you'll learn

• Explain central concepts in Whitehead’s process metaphysics, including actual occasions, creativity and becoming
• Describe Hartshorne’s development of process theology and his account of a dynamic, relational God
• Outline how process philosophy has been applied to ethics, ecology, economics, education and interfaith dialogue
• Relate process philosophy to debates involving science, religion, environmental ethics and sustainability
• Compare philosophical viewpoints and formulate informed responses through discussion of selected texts

Is this course right for you?

The course is listed as suitable for all levels and is intended for learners willing to engage with philosophical ideas through presentations, reading and respectful whole-class discussion. Participation involves considering different viewpoints and developing personal responses to challenging questions in philosophy, theology and ethics.

• Includes discussion of philosophical and theological perspectives
• Uses selected reading extracts alongside tutor presentations
• Involves whole-class discussion and comparison of viewpoints