The Purposes of College Education

An inaugural lecture exploring the foundational questions of higher education's purpose, referencing historical philosophical viewpoints and the evolving mission of institutions like Yale.

This lecture delves into classical philosophical perspectives on happiness within the context of college education, drawing from foundational texts and historical thought.

An introductory lecture on Plato's foundational philosophy, setting the stage for discussions on his Republic and its enduring relevance to the aims of higher education.

A philosophical inquiry into the concept of justice, drawn from Lecture 4 of a Yale course examining the foundational purposes of college education through classical texts.

An examination of the foundational principles and historical context surrounding the establishment of Yale College, offering insights into early American higher education.

An academic exploration of Yale's role during the American Revolution, positioned as Lecture 6 in a course on the broader purposes of college education.

This lecture dissects the concept of the 'Noble Lie' from Plato's Republic, exploring its ethical and political implications within the framework of educational philosophy.

A Yale lecture analyzing Plato's tripartite theory of the soul as presented in The Republic, connecting ancient psychological thought to modern educational paradigms.

Lecture 9 from a Yale course, analyzing the interplay of community and injustice in the context of higher education, referencing Plato's Republic and other philosophical works.

Examining Plato's concept of 'guardians' in The Republic, this lecture explores their education and its implications for modern understandings of college's civic role.

An examination of Yale College admissions history, exploring the evolving purposes of college education through the lens of foundational philosophical texts and institutional documents.

The twelfth lecture in a Yale University course examining the philosophical underpinnings of college education and its role in fostering citizenship, drawing from Plato and diverse thinkers.

Close reading of Book VI of Plato's Republic—weighing Plato's critique of democratic rhetoric against civic education and constitutional self-government.

The fourteenth installment of the 'Purposes of College Education' series, exploring the evolution and concepts of democracy from ancient origins to modern interpretations.