Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato from Coursera

In this course we study the ancient, Socratic art of blowing up your beliefs as you go, to make sure they're built to last. We spend six weeks studying three Platonic dialogues - "Euthyphro", "Meno", "Republic" Book I - then two weeks pondering a pair of footnotes to Plato: contemporary moral theory and moral psychology.

Platonic? Socratic? Socrates was the teacher, but he said he never did. Plato was the student who put words in his teacher's mouth. You'll get a feel for it.

We have a book: the new 4th edition of "Reason and Persuasion", by the instructor (and his wife, Belle Waring, the translator.) It contains the Plato you need, plus introductory material and in-depth, chapter-length commentaries. (Don't worry! John Holbo knows better than to read his book to the camera. The videos cover the same material, but the presentation is different.)

The book is offered free in PDF form - the whole thing, and individual chapter slices. It is also available in print and other e-editions. See the course content for links and information.

The course is suitable for beginning students of Plato and philosophy, but is intended to offer something to more advanced students as well. We seek new, odd angles on old, basic angles. Tricky! The strategy is to make a wide-ranging, interdisciplinary approach. Lots of contemporary connections, to make the weird bits intuitive; plus plenty of ancient color, still bright after all these years. So: arguments and ideas, new possibilities, old stories, fun facts. Plus cartoons.

The results can get elaborate (some book chapters and some lesson videos run long.) But each video comes with a brief summary of its contents. The lessons progress. I put them in this order for reasons. But there's no reason you can't skip over and around to find whatever seems most interesting. There are any number of self-contained mini-courses contained in this 8-week course. You are welcome to them.

Plato has meant different things to different people. He's got his own ideas, no doubt. (Also, his own Ideas.) But these have, over the centuries, been worn into crossing paths for other feet; been built up into new platforms for projecting other voices. (Plato did it to Socrates, so fair is fair.) So your learning outcome should be: arrival somewhere interesting, in your head, where you haven't been before. I wouldn't presume to dictate more exactly.

What's inside

Syllabus

Plato's Euthyphro I: Bad Dads, Good Arguments

We start with Plato's "Euthyphro", a short dialogue in which Socrates debates the nature of holiness with a priest, Euthyphro. (The Bad Dad is Euthyphro's. Maybe. If he's a murderer. Do you think he's a murderer?) But mostly the videos for this first week and general and introductory. Plato, Socrates. Who are they? How should I read? For more detail, click "Advice About Reading", under "Overview", below.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches an accessible and actionable philosophical method to challenge your own beliefs

Develops an ability to engage with and interpret complex philosophical texts, especially Plato's dialogues

Suitable for beginners and advanced students alike, as it offers unique perspectives on familiar philosophical concepts

Provides a comprehensive exploration of Platonic philosophy through a variety of lenses, including moral psychology and ethics

Leverages contemporary moral theory and moral psychology to make ancient philosophical concepts more relevant and relatable

Taught by an experienced instructor with a research background in philosophy, offering deep insights into the subject matter

Reviews summary

Deep dive into plato's dialogues

According to learners, this course offers a deep and engaging exploration of three key Platonic dialogues: Euthyphro, Meno, and Republic Book I. Students highly praise the instructor, John Holbo, for his clarity, wit, and ability to make complex ideas accessible and interesting. The course is seen as providing a strong foundation in philosophical reasoning and Socratic method, effectively linking ancient concepts to contemporary moral theory and psychology. The provision of the instructor's book free in PDF format is widely appreciated. While the course is designed for both beginners and more advanced students, some found the material challenging, requiring careful thought and rereading. Overall, it's considered an excellent introduction to Plato and philosophical thinking.

Good for beginners and advanced students.

"As a beginner, I found it accessible yet challenging in a good way."

"Offered fresh perspectives even for someone familiar with Plato."

"Balances introductory material with sophisticated analysis."

"Both newcomers and those with philosophy backgrounds can benefit."

"The course manages to cater to a wide range of learners."

Instructor's book provided free in PDF.

"Having the full book available for free was incredibly helpful."

"The accompanying text supplemented the lectures perfectly."

"Great resource to have the Reason and Persuasion book as a PDF."

"Appreciate the generosity of providing the book gratis."

"The book is well-written and a valuable companion."

Connects ancient philosophy to today.

"Loved how the course linked Plato to modern moral psychology."

"Seeing the relevance of ancient debates today was eye-opening."

"The connections to contemporary ethics were particularly interesting."

"It helps bridge the gap between ancient texts and modern thought."

"Made me realize how much current thinking is rooted in Plato."

Deep analysis of Plato's dialogues.

"The course offers a surprisingly deep dive into the selected dialogues."

"Focusing on just three dialogues allows for thorough exploration."

"Learned so much about the nuances of Plato's arguments."

"The discussions on Euthyphro, Meno, and Republic Book I were comprehensive."

"Provides a solid foundation for understanding Plato's core ideas."

Instructor makes complex philosophy accessible.

"Professor Holbo is engaging and articulate, making complex subjects understandable."

"The professor was witty, insightful, and made philosophy feel alive."

"His ability to connect historical ideas to modern concepts was brilliant."

"I appreciated the professor's clear explanations and thoughtful analysis."

"John Holbo is a phenomenal lecturer; his passion is infectious."

Requires careful thought and engagement.

"The material is challenging and requires active thinking."

"Needed to reread sections of the dialogues and lectures to grasp concepts."

"Not a light or easy course, demands intellectual effort."

"Some parts were complex and took time to process."

"Requires dedication to fully absorb the arguments presented."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato with these activities:

Read "The Republic"

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Gain a deeper understanding of Plato's political philosophy and its relevance to modern society.

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Acquire and read the book.
Read the book one chapter at a time.
Summarise each chapter in your own words.

Follow an online course on ancient Greek philosophy

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Gain foundational knowledge of ancient Greek philosophy and its influence on Plato's work.

Browse courses on Ancient Greek Philosophy

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Identify an online course on ancient Greek philosophy.
Enroll in the course and complete the lessons and assignments.
Participate in online discussions and connect with other learners.

Read "Reason and Persuasion"

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Solidify learning and increase retention by reading a work related to concepts covered in the course.

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Acquire and read the book.
Read the book one chapter at a time.
Summarise each chapter in your own words.

Five other activities

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Answer discussion questions

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Practice the Socratic method of argumentation and critical thinking.

Browse courses on Socratic Method

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Choose a discussion question on the course discussion board.
Write a concise answer that responds to the question and provides arguments.
Respond to other students' answers and engage in constructive dialogue.

Create logic puzzles based on Platonic concepts

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Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the creation of logic puzzles.

Browse courses on Philosophy

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Review the basic concepts of logic and reasoning.
Identify a Platonic concept to base your puzzle on.
Create a puzzle that challenges learners to apply the concept and solve a logical problem.

Host a study group

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Lead a discussion-based review of course materials to reinforce understanding.

Browse courses on Socratic Method

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Find a group of fellow students interested in forming a study group.
Choose a topic or section of the course to focus on.
Prepare discussion questions and activities.
Meet regularly to discuss the material and engage in group learning.

Write a blog post about a Platonic concept

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Enhance understanding of a Platonic concept by explaining it in your own words.

Browse courses on Philosophy

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Choose a Platonic concept to explore.
Research the concept thoroughly.
Write a blog post that explains the concept clearly and engagingly.
Share your blog post with others and encourage discussion.

Volunteer at a local philosophy organization

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Enhance practical understanding of philosophical concepts through real-world engagement.

Browse courses on Philosophy

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Identify a local philosophy organization that aligns with your interests.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in volunteer activities that involve discussions and workshops on philosophical topics.

Career center

Learners who complete Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Philosopher

A Philosopher studies and analyzes fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", is highly relevant to a Philosopher as it delves into the core ideas of ancient Greek philosophy. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes critical thinking and the pursuit of wisdom. Additionally, the study of Plato's dialogues provides a foundation for understanding the history of philosophy and its major themes.

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Lawyer

A Lawyer represents clients in legal matters, advocating for their rights and interests. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", is highly relevant to a Lawyer as it provides a foundation in logical reasoning and argumentation. The course explores the Socratic method, which encourages critical thinking and the ability to defend a position effectively. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western legal systems.

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Judge

A Judge presides over court proceedings, ensuring that trials are fair and that the law is applied justly. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", provides a strong foundation for a Judge as it explores the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. The course examines the Socratic method, which emphasizes critical thinking and the ability to reason logically. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western legal systems and the concept of natural law.

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Professor

A Professor teaches undergraduate and graduate students at a college or university. Through lectures, group discussions, and assignments, the Professor conveys their knowledge in a specialized discipline and guides students in their coursework. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", is particularly relevant to a Professor as it provides insights into the Socratic method of questioning and argumentation. Additionally, the course delves into ancient Greek philosophy and its influence on modern thought, which can be invaluable for a Professor who teaches in the humanities.

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Politician

A Politician runs for and holds elected office in government, shaping policies and representing the interests of constituents. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be beneficial for a Politician as it provides a framework for understanding political ideologies and the art of persuasion. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes critical thinking and the ability to articulate a position effectively. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the history of political thought and the foundations of democracy.

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Journalist

A Journalist investigates and reports on current events and issues, providing information to the public. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be beneficial for a Journalist as it strengthens their ability to critically analyze information and present it in a clear and unbiased manner. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes questioning and logical reasoning, skills crucial for accurate and ethical reporting.

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Psychologist

A Psychologist studies human behavior and mental processes, conducting research and providing therapy. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be helpful for a Psychologist as it provides a foundation in critical thinking and the examination of human nature. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes questioning and self-examination, skills essential for psychological research and therapy. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western psychology and the concept of the soul.

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Sociologist

A Sociologist studies human societies and social behavior, analyzing social structures, institutions, and cultural practices. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be beneficial for a Sociologist as it provides a foundation in critical thinking and the examination of human nature. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes questioning and logical reasoning, skills essential for sociological research and analysis. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western sociology and the concept of social contract.

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Anthropologist

An Anthropologist studies human societies and cultures, analyzing their origins, development, and diversity. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be helpful for an Anthropologist as it provides a foundation in critical thinking and the examination of human nature. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes questioning and logical reasoning, skills essential for anthropological research and analysis. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western anthropology and the concept of cultural relativism.

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Teacher

A Teacher educates and instructs students at various levels, from primary school to university. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be beneficial for a Teacher as it provides insights into the Socratic method of teaching and learning. The course explores the importance of questioning, critical thinking, and dialogue in fostering intellectual growth. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers a foundation for understanding the Western educational tradition.

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Theologian

A Theologian studies religious beliefs, practices, and texts, seeking to understand their meaning and significance. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be helpful for a Theologian as it provides a foundation in critical thinking and the examination of fundamental questions. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes questioning and logical reasoning, skills essential for theological research and analysis. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western theology and the concept of the divine.

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Policy Analyst

A Policy Analyst researches, analyzes, and evaluates public policies, providing recommendations to policymakers. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be helpful for a Policy Analyst as it provides a framework for understanding the principles of public policy and the art of persuasion. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes critical thinking and the ability to articulate a position effectively.

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Social Worker

A Social Worker helps people navigate social and economic challenges, providing support and resources. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be helpful for a Social Worker as it provides a framework for understanding human behavior and social issues. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes empathy and the ability to listen actively. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western ethical thought and the concept of social justice.

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Historian

A Historian researches and analyzes past events, interpreting their significance and impact on the present. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can be beneficial for a Historian as it provides a foundation in critical thinking and the examination of primary sources. The course explores the Socratic method, which emphasizes questioning and logical reasoning, skills essential for historical research. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy offers insights into the origins of Western historiography.

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Writer

A Writer creates written content for various purposes, such as articles, books, marketing materials, and website content. This course, \"Reason and Persuasion: Thinking Through Three Dialogues By Plato\", can help a Writer develop strong arguments and convey them effectively through writing. The course explores the Socratic method of questioning, which encourages critical thinking and clear expression. Additionally, the study of ancient Greek philosophy provides a foundation for understanding the Western intellectual tradition and its impact on modern writing.

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