What is the role of metaphysics? Register for this course to journey with us as we discover together this portion of philosophy that addresses the key elements of existence and reality. Find out how these essential concepts have played a role in the Church's understanding of the divine.
How to get the most out of Metaphysics: The Philosophy of Being with Julian Ahlquist:
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First, read the course materials below before the first class meeting.
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Then have a notebook ready and available for class notes each live session.
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Read assignments before class meetings
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Watch that week’s recording if you need to revisit information from our live session.
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Do the assignments, quizzes, and any extra work assigned for that week.
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Once the course is completed to the parent's and professor’s satisfaction, there is a Certificate of Completion at the end to be filled in for your records.
Special Notes: All course materials are provided free by the instructor.
Total number of class meetings: 15
Duration: 55 minutes per class
Prerequisite: None. However, Early Greek Philosophy (Fall Semester) is recommended.
Suggested grade level: 11th to 12th grade
Suggested credit: One full semester Philosophy or Metaphysics
Instructors: Julian Ahlquist
Instructor email: julian.ahlquist@gmail.com
Course description: This course examines basic philosophical terms and concepts regarding “being” with an emphasis on the tradition of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas. Metaphysics (a.k.a. Ontology) is commonly thought to be the highest branch of philosophy because it pertains to everything, that is, all existence. It has implications in all other fields of knowledge, including science, mathematics, and especially theology. Grasping the essence of reality will help you literally understand everything more.
Course outline:
Week 1: What is Metaphysics?
Week 2: Pre-Socratic Metaphysics
Week 3: Platonic Metaphysics
Week 4: Aristotelian and Thomistic Metaphysics (background)
Week 5: Real vs. Mental Being
Week 6: Supreme Principles
Week 7: Actuality vs. Potentiality
Week 8: Essence and Existence
Week 9: Substance and Accident
Week 10: Categories of Being
Week 11: Form vs. Matter
Week 12: Cause and Effect
Week 13: Good vs. Evil
Week 14: Transcendentals
Week 15: Conclusion
Course materials: All materials provided free by the instructor as downloadable PDF files.
Homework: Homework will involve periodic quizzes with fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice questions, and two comprehensive exams.
- Teacher: Julian Ahlquist