Main objective is to create a critical self-image we have toward our own Self and Self-understanding. We discuss philosophical ideas in an ethical way in order to better understand our own position in a world full of Others.
Course outline
Egoism
How do we view the Self and what it means to be egoist today as well as in ethics in general, combined with Solipsism and it's views that there is only Me and what happens in my mind, are essential in Self-understanding. Here we question how students can understand those notions and deal with argumentation in favor or against it.
| Author / creator | Curator | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Zoran Kojčić | Zoran Kojčić | 10/2019 |
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Aims and objectives
Content
Explaining what does egoism represent and question students' ability to judge egotistic people and their actions, as well as their self-perception and realization which actions are egotistic. Also, introduce the notion of solipsism, it's views and main points, together with short critique of this notion and main ideas.
Following the PDF file, use questions and topics more closely for your students and their abilities, needs and situation.
Learning activities
Use smart-phones to take a selfie and question whether this is egotistic activity. Use the story of Narcissus to illustrate what is narcissism and how it works. Explain what is the difference for Narcissus (looking at the Self) and modern day selfies (showing your photos to others) and how does this revolve around their social media activities.
Foster dialogue and debate on topics of love and devotion and whether this is egotistic.
Question solipsist's position and show the main weak points of such view.
Materials and resources
PDF material available for download
Location
This workshop was done as part of Ethics curriculum in high schools in Croatia. The workshop was done in high schools in Vukovar and Dalj with students age 14 - 18.
Time
This workshop can be done in a 45 minutes long class, as they are in Croatia. However, depending on teacher as facilitator, it could be prolonged to 90 minutes, given that many new materials or questions could be presented. The time will always depend on the facilitator and their own judgement which parts of the workshop are most important and the dinamic of the group.
Teacher role
Use explanations of new terms (solipsism) to create critical views and let students think for themselves. Question all positions in an argumentative style and Socratic method.