The Quest for Meaning | Online Synchronous Course
The Quest for Meaning: Insights from Aristotle, Frankl, and Sartre
Course Description:
Join me on a journey through the philosophical and literary reflections of three eminent writers and thinkers as they grapple with the quest for meaning in the world. This course is an exploration of how these figures navigated the complexities of existence, offering distinct perspectives on life, purpose, and the human condition.
Course Structure:
3 sessions spanning 1 week.
We will delve into the search for meaning from three unique vantage points:
Session 1: Aristotle's Quest for Purpose and Excellence
- Theme: Exploring Personal Fulfillment and the Pursuit of Excellence
Session 2: Navigating Adversity, Finding Meaning, and Being in the World with Frankl
- Theme: Discovering Meaning Amidst Adversity and Uncertainty
Session 3: Sartre's Philosophy of Choice and Authenticity
- Theme: Exploring Personal Freedom and Creative Self-Expression
Course Objectives:
In a world marked by uncertainty and existential questions, this course offers a space for reflection and discussion. I will not provide definitive answers, but we will embark on a journey to understand how these philosophers and thinkers grappled with the challenge of finding meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.
Relevance Today:
In an era characterized by crises on multiple fronts, including political, social, economic, and existential, the themes of alienation and existential crises are more pertinent than ever. This course serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our search for meaning. Writers and philosophers from diverse backgrounds have left behind profound reflections on making sense of the world.
What to Expect:
This course may not provide immediate solutions, but it will equip you with the tools, questions, and perspectives to contemplate life and the meaning of existence from diverse and thought-provoking angles. It's an opportunity for open discussions, self-reflection, and the exploration of ideas.
About me:
- Mahmoud Rasmi (@decafquest): Hi, my name is Mahmoud Rasmi. I have over 10 years of experience as a researcher, lecturer, and consultant specializing in philosophy, cultural projects, and cultural policy. Before setting up my consulting & online courses business, I taught philosophy and cultural studies at the American University of Beirut & Lebanese American University between 2013 & 2020. I have a BBA in Banking & Finance from the Lebanese American University, and an M.A. in Cultural Heritage Management, and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Salamanca, Spain.
Website:
Sample Class from a previous course:
Dates and Schedule:
- 1 week, 3 sessions, TUESDAY, THURSDAY, TUESDAY, 1.5 hrs per session.
- October 10, 12, 17.
- 7 pm CET time.
- Synchronous online via Zoom.
- Asynchronous: if you can't attend, you will have the option to watch the recorded lectures.
Important information:
You will receive the link to the sessions a few days before the course starts.
Since we are not an institution, you will not be able to claim credits for the course. Many of you might also already be busy with your jobs and daily routine; as a result, we won’t be assigning any homework, exams, or papers. However, if any of you wishes to be assessed on the course material covered, we can arrange for the proper method and format in private.
The sessions will be recorded and uploaded to the DecafQuest YouTube channel as hidden. The links will be made available on google classroom to those registered.
Money back guaranteed after the first session
Money back guaranteed: If for some reason you think this workshop isn't a good fit for you, you can ask me for a full refund within 24 hours AFTER THE FIRST SESSION, no questions asked.
Testimonials: Praise from others:
A pdf including course details.