Courses

Can we live well when much of what we care about lies beyond our command? This course investigates the Stoic answer through ancient texts, reconstructed arguments, concrete cases and serious objections. It covers value, judgment, emotion, practice, nature, agency and social obligation. It does not offer clinical treatment, a comprehensive history of all Hellenistic philosophy, or a survey of every modern Stoic movement.

How can you make a sound decision when evidence is incomplete and you have reasons to prefer one answer? Learn to distinguish confidence from support, interpret probability, examine causal claims, rely on expertise, disagree fairly and write a defensible decision memorandum.

What makes someone a man others can reasonably trust? Examine character, courage, promises, friendship, partnership and authority through concrete cases and serious objections. Develop dependable conduct, fair cooperation and a capacity for care without making reputation, domination or unlimited self-sacrifice the standard.