What is human nature like, and can knowledge of it tell us how to live? In this course we hone our ability to read, think, and write critically by exploring these questions from the perspectives of philosophy, biology, psychology, and anthropology. We discuss and compare influential historical and contemporary conceptions of human nature and investigate their potential implications for our well-being, social organization, morality, and self-understanding. We thus critically reflect on (i) how such conceptions underlie public policy, moral norms, and scientific inquiry, and (ii) how our own conception of human nature shapes our beliefs and lived experience.
Student Reviews
Anonymous AY24/25 Sem 1
About the Instructor
Amazing: the professor is really knowledgeable and passionate. His enthusiasm is infectious and lessons never feel boring or slow.
Content (Structure/Organization)
I think the learning outcomes weren't so clearly defined given the topic is quite a general one. I felt the course provided a sufficiently comprehensive overview of different theories of human nature, from the perspective of Chinese, Western philosophy - even evolutionary biology.
Manageability of Workload
Maximum 3-5 hours per week when there are no papers due. If not, upwards of 5 hours per day when writing the midterm and final papers.
Ease/Difficulty of Attaining Grades
Not too sure about this, since I didn't ask my course mates for their grades.
Learning Value/Recommendation
Fairly high
Additional Comments/Word of Advice
Overall, I enjoyed the course.