What is the meaning of life? This burning question is at the heart of philosophy. We will explore the ways in which philosophy can help us tackle it. We will investigate a diverse range of philosophical perspectives from different areas of philosophy each of which interprets the question in a slightly different way. We will look at the work of philosophers such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Patricia Churchland, Leibniz, Christine Korsgaard, Daniel Dennett, Martha Nussbaum, Confucius, Elizabeth Barnes, Immanuel Kant, Christine Swanton, Epicurus.

We'll grapple with ideas that inform our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. What, if anything, is ultimately of value in life? Is freedom to affect your future important, and do you have that freedom? Could you have a meaningful life in an artificial reality? Is there a reason you exist? Should you radically change the way you are living? What should be done about existential threats such as Climate Change?

The module provides a firm foundation for your further studies, as these issues are at the heart of philosophy and also at the foundation of related disciplines, such as politics and economics.

The Meaning of Life is the third Accredited Module in the Crito Project curriculum. It represents a significant ‘step up’ into higher education for our students; they are now studying modules that mirror the structure, reading, assessment and rewards experienced by students on the UEA campus.