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A series of lectures delivered by Peter Millican to first-year philosophy students at the University of Oxford. The lectures comprise of the 8-week General Philosophy course, delivered to first year undergraduates. These lectures aim to provide a thorough introduction to many philosophical topics and to get students and others interested in thinking about key areas of philosophy. Taking a chronological view of the history of philosophy, each lecture is split into 3 or 4 sections which outline a particular philosophical problem and how different philosophers have attempted to resolve the issue. Individuals interested in the 'big' questions about life such as how we perceive the world, who we are in the world and whether we are free to act will find this series informative, comprehensive and accessible.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Introduction to philosophical topics • Philosophical method • Historical survey of philosophy • Key philosophical problems and solutions • Science and philosophy interplay • Philosophers' views on identity, perception, knowledge, and free willThis podcast, titled "General Philosophy," offers a comprehensive introduction to key philosophical topics through a series of lectures by Peter Millican, aimed at first-year philosophy students at the University of Oxford. The series delves into foundational themes of Western philosophy, beginning with the historical evolution from Ancient Greece through the Modern Period, examining pivotal figures and ideas that have shaped philosophical discourse.
A recurring focus is the exploration of philosophical scepticism and the nature of knowledge. Listeners are introduced to concepts such as the problem of induction, scepticism about the external world, and the mind-body problem, analyzing how these issues have been addressed by philosophers like Descartes, Hume, and Kant. The podcast also unpacks complex theories, including Cartesian dualism and Hume's interpretations of liberty and necessity.
The philosophical method and the role of empirical evidence are themes that persist throughout the episodes. Discussions on figures such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Isaac Newton offer insights into the interplay between science and philosophy and how empirical approaches have influenced philosophical thought.
In addition to epistemology and scepticism, the podcast investigates metaphysical issues, such as free will, moral responsibility, and personal identity. By examining various perspectives, including Hobbes' determinism and Locke's views on personal identity, the podcast provides listeners with a rich dialogue on how these philosophical concepts are interpreted and challenged.
Overall, this podcast presents a structured exploration of significant philosophical questions, offering listeners an introduction to the historical and thematic breadth of philosophical inquiry. It aims to engage those curious about the foundational issues that question human perception, identity, and autonomy.