Arete House is proud to present:

Conversations with the Ancient Masters

Convened by Dr Toby Mendelson

 

In this short introductory course, we examine five of the greatest ancient thinkers, from three of the greatest ancient civilisations. In the first week we journey back to ancient Greece and examine the relation between knowledge and the good life, via two of the most influential thinkers in human history, Plato and Aristotle. We then turn to ancient India and investigate the Dharma of Gautama Buddha, paying particular heed to the Buddhist notion of gaining freedom from suffering. Finally we turn to ancient China and examine the notion of virtue in Confucian thought and the idea of harmony in the Taoism of Lao Tzu.

No prior knowledge of philosophy or any ancient traditions is assumed. The course is really about examining your own life and values, in the context of these great ancient thinkers. We do this in a spirit of friendliness and curiosity, with an emphasis on discussion and dialogue. When open minds meet interesting ideas, inspiration always follows.

You can listen to a short audio introduction to the course here: https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/aretehousepodcastsspirituallifeinthe21st/conversations+AM.mp3

Register your interest early to ensure your place: toby@aretehouse.com.au

 

 

Week One, June 20th, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Plato and Aristotle, knowledge and the good life

Week Two, June 27th, 7:00pm-8:30pm – The Buddha, freedom from suffering

Week Three, July 4th, 7:00pm-8:30pm – Confucius and Lao Tzu, virtue and harmony