Course Overview
Résumé de section
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by Roy Clouser (3 Credits)
The study of Ancient Philosophy is important and practical for a number of reasons. First, it provides a foundation for understanding the development of Western thought. Many of the ideas and concepts that we take for granted today, such as democracy, human rights, and the scientific method, were first explored by ancient philosophers. By studying their work, we can better understand how our own ideas and values came to be.
Second, ancient philosophy can help us to develop critical thinking skills. Ancient philosophers were masters of logic and argumentation, and their writings can teach us how to think clearly and rationally about complex issues. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, it is more important than ever to be able to think critically about the sources of our information and to form our own opinions based on evidence.
Third, ancient philosophy can help us to live better lives. Ancient philosophers were concerned with the big questions of life, such as the meaning of existence, the nature of happiness, and the best way to live. Their writings can offer us guidance and insights as we try to navigate the challenges of life.
In short, the study of Ancient Philosophy is important and practical because it can help us to understand our world, develop critical thinking skills, and live better lives.
Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will have an understanding of:
1. Important ancient philosophers and their theories
2. The impact ancient philosophies have on the development of the field and our understanding of it today
3. Philosophy as it relates to religion and the divine
4. Logic, theories of knowledge, theories of reality, sphere sovereignty, religious experience, the Problem of Evil
Required Assignments
1. View all online lectures and read all articles on each topic. Active engagement with course materials prior to attempting the quiz is required for each unit. If a resource is provided in multiple formats, simply choose whichever format best supports your learning. CLI’s system tracks your viewing history to determine meaningful engagement. Make sure you are logged into your student account when viewing or downloading the materials.
Please note that the majority of the readings for the course are created based on Professor Clouser's videos and can be considered enhanced and refined transcripts. They are intended as a second way for students to intake and study the very rich lectures.
2. Take the online quiz for each unit. You will have 75 minutes to answer 20 multiple-choice questions for each quiz. Each quiz covers the readings and video lectures for that unit. Once a quiz has started, you must finish it, and you cannot retake it.
Quizzes must be completed independently. The use of AI tools, search engines, other websites, or assistance from other individuals is prohibited.
Quizzes are open-note. You may reference your own notes or any of the provided CLI course materials during the quiz. However, you should plan to study materials prior to attempting the quiz.
Quiz Tip: First answer the questions you know. Then use your own notes or the provided CLI course materials to help answer any questions you are unsure about.
Please Note: Effective September 1, this course will transition to a single-quiz-attempt format to align with standard CLI course metrics. If you are currently enrolled and intend to utilize a second attempt on any upcoming quizzes, please complete them prior to September 1.
3. At the end of the course, you will be invited to complete a brief Course Feedback Survey. Your feedback helps CLI evaluate the course and identify opportunities for improvement.
Course Forum
Each course forum is located near the beginning of the course, immediately before the first course-content section. The forum allows students to post course-related questions and comments for other currently enrolled students to view and discuss. You can also search previous posts to see whether your question or topic has already been addressed.
The forum is intended primarily for peer discussion and may not receive an immediate response. Questions or concerns requiring timely assistance should be directed to the Help Desk at helpdesk@christianleaders.net.
Grading Scale
A 93-100% A- 90-92% B+ 87-89% B 83-86% B- 80-82% C+ 77-79% C 73-76% C- 70-72% D+ 67-69% D 63-66% D- 60-62% F 0-59%
Students' final grade is based on the average of all required quizzes and assignments. Each graded activity is weighted equally unless otherwise stated. The single lowest quiz score will be excluded from the overall grade.
Your average for the course must be at least 60%. Otherwise, you will fail the class and will receive no credit.
Deadline
You have 180 days to finish the course. If you have not received a final grade for the course before your enrollment ends, you will be automatically unenrolled, you will receive an “Administrative Withdrawal” for the course on your transcript, and all coursework will be removed. You will have to start over and take the class again to receive credit.
To avoid potential administrative delays or additional fees, please complete all assignments at least three weeks before your enrollment end date.
If you believe you qualify for a two-week extension, as outlined in our Catalog policies, please contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@christianleaders.net as soon as possible, ideally at least three weeks before your enrollment end date.