Tutor: Meredith Murray
This continuing series follows the story of Western philosophy from the Enlightenment to the present day, tracing how reason, science, politics, morality, and the search for meaning transformed our understanding of the world and ourselves. Together we will explore the ideas of influential thinkers from Descartes, Hume, Kant, and Wollstonecraft to Marx, Nietzsche, Beauvoir, Arendt, Nussbaum, and contemporary philosophers while considering questions that remain deeply relevant today. Throughout the course, participants are encouraged to engage with these ideas critically and respectfully - one light bulb moment at a time.
Thursday 1.45pm - 4.00pm. Classes started 8 October, finish 10 December.
Cost: $25 (prepaid), 10 weeks
Current Enrolments: 28
Participants are encouraged to engage with these ideas critically and respectfully, discovering how philosophy continues to shape debates about freedom, knowledge, justice, identity, technology, and what it means to live a good human life.
No previous study of philosophy is needed, only curiosity and an interest in exploring life's big questions. Classes are relaxed, friendly and interactive, using clear slides, images, humour and discussion to make sometimes-challenging ideas accessible to everyone. I email questions before each session for those who enjoy preparing, but there is no expectation that you do so. We take turns reading aloud, but there is no pressure to read if you would rather not. The same applies to our small-group discussions we hope you will join in, but participation is always your choice. Arrive early for a social chat, enjoy a short cuppa break, and receive a PDF of the slides after each session. Above all, this is a supportive learning community where we explore ideas together as friends with curiosity, respect and good humour.
About the Tutor: Meredith Murray
Dr. Meredith Murray is a retired teacher, researcher, and university administrator with a passion for lifelong learning and making education accessible to all. Beyond preparing philosophy tutorials, she enjoys painting, songwriting, meeting new people, playing darts and coordinating arts and crafts in her lifestyle village. Her love of philosophy and dedication to meaningful teaching create an inviting space for exploration and discovery. Meredith warmly welcomes you on this journey to embrace the knowledge that shapes our lives, inspiring curiosity and connection at every step.If you are a U3A Brisbane member you may enrol in this class online using the Enrol button below. You will be asked to provide your membership number and name for identification.
If you wish to obtain further information about this class before enrolling, you may send a message to the tutor using the Send Enquiry Message button below.