**Course Title: « Descartes’ Philosophy: A Deep Dive into the Foundations of Modern Thought »**
**Course Description:**
This MOOC, « Descartes’ Philosophy: A Deep Dive into the Foundations of Modern Thought, » offers an in-depth exploration of the life, works, and philosophical contributions of René Descartes. Through a series of engaging lectures, interactive discussions, and multimedia resources, this course will guide learners through the fundamental principles that have shaped modern philosophy and science.
**Course Outline:**
**Week 1: Introduction to René Descartes**
– Brief biography of René Descartes
– Overview of Descartes’ major works
– Importance of Descartes in the history of philosophy
**Week 2: Methodological Doubt and the Cogito**
– Descartes’ method of systematic doubt
– The famous phrase « Cogito, ergo sum » (I think, therefore I am)
– Analysis of Descartes’ argument for the existence of the self
**Week 3: Substance Dualism**
– Descartes’ distinction between mind and body
– Critiques and implications of substance dualism
– Interactive activity: Group discussion on the mind-body problem
**Week 4: The Existence of God**
– Descartes’ arguments for the existence of God
– The ontological argument
– Comparison with other philosophers’ arguments for God’s existence
**Week 5: The Scientific Method and Epistemology**
– Descartes’ influence on the development of the scientific method
– His contributions to epistemology and the theory of knowledge
– Case studies: Descartes’ impact on modern science
**Week 6: Ethics and Moral Philosophy**
– Descartes’ views on ethics and morality
– The role of reason in moral decision-making
– Comparative analysis: Descartes’ ethics vs. other philosophical traditions
**Week 7: The Legacy of Descartes**
– Descartes’ influence on subsequent philosophers and thinkers
– The development of rationalism and empiricism
– Contemporary debates inspired by Descartes’ ideas
**Assessments:**
– Weekly quizzes to reinforce learning
– Mid-term essay on Descartes’ methodological doubt
– Final project: A research paper on a specific aspect of Descartes’ philosophy
**Additional Resources:**
– Interactive timeline of Descartes’ life and work
– Virtual library of Descartes’ key texts
– Guest lectures from leading Descartes scholars
– Discussion forums for peer-to-peer learning and debate
**Course Language:** English
**Tone:** Neutral and informative, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of philosophical concepts.
**Target Audience:** Students, professionals, and lifelong learners interested in philosophy, history, science, and the foundations of modern thought.
**Course Duration:** 7 weeks
**Course Format:** Online, self-paced with deadlines for assessments
** certificat:** Upon completion of the course and successful submission of all assessments, learners will receive a certificate of completion.
Join us on this intellectual journey through the thought-provoking world of René Descartes and discover the origins of the ideas that continue to shape our understanding of reality, knowledge, and the self.