According to legend, inscribed on walls of the temple on the sacred site of Delphi in Ancient Greece were two premier injunctions: NOTHING IN EXCESS, and KNOW THYSELF. This course will be an examination of the latter injunction in an effort to discover what self-knowledge is, why it might be valuable, and what, if any, limitations it might face. What is missing from a person lacking in self-knowledge that makes her less wise, virtuous, or competent in certain areas than others who have this capacity, and what if anything might she do to fill that gap? Historical sources as well as recent research in philosophy, experimental social psychology, and neuroscience will inform our investigation, in the course of which we will become students of our own dreams, and cultivate some meditative practices.
Offered By


Know Thyself - The Value and Limits of Self-Knowledge: The Examined Life
The University of EdinburghAbout this Course
Could your company benefit from training employees on in-demand skills?
Try Coursera for BusinessCould your company benefit from training employees on in-demand skills?
Try Coursera for BusinessOffered by
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Getting started
Socrates and the Examined Life
Descartes' Essence
A re-casting of the Mind/Body problem
MIND AND SELF: Some Aspects of Human Nature
Final assessment
Reviews
- 5 stars73%
- 4 stars21.16%
- 3 stars3.88%
- 2 stars0.97%
- 1 star0.97%
TOP REVIEWS FROM KNOW THYSELF - THE VALUE AND LIMITS OF SELF-KNOWLEDGE: THE EXAMINED LIFE
This course was amazing! I loved the extracurricular activities (readings, assignments and the meditative moments) which helped to contextualise the material learned in an interdisciplinary context.
It was such an amazing experience to understand and learn how to know ourselves better. I really enjoy the activities and the lessons about the topics and it is engaging.
Great philosophy course. A lot of abstract concepts here, so it would be helpful if the speed of the Prof's speech is slower, to allow more room for contemplation.
This was incredibly fun and relatively easy to follow. The additional readings were also helpful in painting a better picture of the topics. Very recommended!
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
Is financial aid available?
More questions? Visit the Learner Help Center.