Do you draw conclusions from how things are to think about how things should be? There might be a gap in your reasoning - this is the is/ought problem:
The concepts
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David Hume: 18th Century Philosopher
2011 is the 300th anniversary of the birth of one of the greatest figures in Western Philosophy – David Hume. As well as an economist and historian, Hume was specifically known for his scepticism and empiricism, and was also an important figure in the Scottish Enlightenment period in the 18th century. In this audio collection, The Open University’s Nigel Warburton is joined by A.C. Grayling and other philosophers to discuss Hume’s key theories around the self, induction and his argument against miracles. A good entry point into philosophy and the work of David Hume. This material forms part of The Open University course A222 Exploring philosophy.
Listen nowDavid Hume: 18th Century PhilosopherLevel: 1 Introductory
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David Hume
This free course, David Hume, examines Hume's reasons for being complacent in the face of death, as these are laid out in his suppressed essay of 1755, 'Of the immortality of the soul'. More generally, it examines some of the shifts in attitude concerning death and religious belief that were taking place in Europe at the end of the eighteenth century, through examination of this and other short essays.
Learn moreDavid HumeLevel: 2 Intermediate
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Is it ever morally acceptable to visit a mass murder site?
Why are ‘Jack the Ripper’ tours or visiting sites of genocide in Auschwitz or Cambodia deemed acceptable but the more recent ‘Yorkshire Ripper’ tours seen as immoral? Does time make a difference or does our view of morality run a little deeper?
Read nowIs it ever morally acceptable to visit a mass murder site?Level: 1 Introductory
General philosophising
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Introducing philosophy
Ever wondered what it would be like to study philosophy? This free course, Introducing philosophy, will introduce you to the teaching methods employed and the types of activities and assignments you would be asked to undertake should you wish to study philosophy and the human situation.
Learn moreIntroducing philosophyLevel: 1 Introductory
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Choose your own philosophy adventure
'Castle, Forest, Island, Sea' is a choose-your-own-adventure story that explores key questions in philosophy. Where will your chosen path lead you?
Take part nowChoose your own philosophy adventureLevel: 1 Introductory
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Study at the OU: The arts past and present
A broad course that introduces the arts across a range of subject areas, including music, art, English, classics and history
Read moreStudy at the OU: The arts past and present -
Exploring Philosophy
Does God exist? Why should I act morally? Can I trust science? Should I obey laws I disagree with? Discover how philosophers have offered radically diverging answers to these and other questions.
Read moreExploring Philosophy
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