Games and Philosophy

What is the point of doubt? How do we make ethical decisions? How do we deal with suffering and injustice? Instead of just considering these questions from a theoretical standpoint, why not join our immersive role-playing game to find out how you really feel about these big philosophical questions? 

PH2227 Games and Philosophy is a course offered by the Department of Philosophy at the National University of Singapore. It's designed for complete newcomers to philosophy, and for those who are familiar with philosophy but would like to experience it in a different way. In this course, we cover the themes of doubt, ethical decisions, and suffering, drawing from philosophical texts across eras and traditions.

Plato characterises philosophical inquiry as a form of play, and philosophers across traditions have communicated their ideas through playful mediums like poetry and dialogues. In this course, you will have full reign to philosophise playfully, from roleplaying your way through philosophical scenarios to choosing the formats and topics for your assignments.

During Game Days, enter the fantasy world of Sophistia. Wrestle with storylines that were designed by our team to make you experience what it is like to induce doubt and feel it; make tough ethical decisions and reckon with the consequences; recognise suffering, adjudicate responsibility, and make amends.

Meet the eclectic personalities who populate this fantasy world, played by student and alumni performers from Yale-NUS Improv and NUSC Improv. They may try to sway your opinions; they may be seeking genuine advice on what to believe and do. Your decisions in each game will be remembered, and they will determine the trajectory of Sophistia for future games.