PHILOSOPHY, PSYCHOLOGY AND THE MEANING OF LIFE

이 강의는 인간의 삶의 의미 탐구라는 관점에서 철학과 심리학의 교차점을 탐구한다. 고대에는 철학이 지혜를 추구하는 활동으로 여겨졌으며, 진리에 대한 탐구와 인간 삶을 이끄는 윤리적 원칙에 대해 논의하였다. 유럽 중세 시대에는 종교가 도덕적·실존적 이해를 형성하는 중심적 역할을 맡았다. 근대에 들어 과학적, 특히 생물학적·심리학적 접근이 우리의 세계관 형성에 점차 중요한 역할을 하게 되었다. 심리학은 초기부터 정신 질환 치료뿐만 아니라 ‘좋은 삶(Good Life)’과 인간의 목적 탐구와 관련된 문제에도 적극적으로 관여해 왔다. 본 강의에서는 철학적 관점을 통해 심리학의 주요 기여를 살펴보고, 두 학문 간의 대화를 촉진한다. 학생들은 현대 인간 본성 이론을 비판적으로 탐구하며, 현대 사회에서 과학적 세계관에 의해 형성된 맥락 속에서 의미 있는 삶이란 무엇인지에 대한 새로운 철학적 논의를 촉발하는 방법을 모색하게 될 것이다.

This course explores the human quest for meaning at the intersection of philosophy and psychology. From antiquity, when philosophy pursued wisdom and ethical truth, through the Medieval period, where religion shaped moral understanding, to modernity, where scientific and psychological insights dominate, questions about the “Good Life” have persisted. Students will examine key psychological contributions through a philosophical lens, engaging with contemporary theories of human nature and reflecting on what it means to live a meaningful life in a world increasingly guided by the scientific worldview. What does it mean to live a meaningful life? This course dives into that question at the crossroads of philosophy and psychology. From ancient thinkers seeking wisdom and ethical truth, through Medieval religious frameworks, to modern science and psychology, humans have grappled with purpose, happiness, and the “Good Life.” Students will explore key psychological insights through a philosophical lens, sparking fresh debates about human nature and meaning in a world shaped by the scientific worldview.

The class is taught int English, but Korean Summaries of the main content is provided each class. We will use AI to create summaries of discussions. General rules of Keimyung University apply.

Reading and Listening skills in English are required, but help with English (Korean Summaries and Reviews) will be offered.

This course equips students with conceptual tools to reflect critically on questions of purpose, well-being, and the “Good Life” in both personal and professional contexts. By integrating philosophical analysis with psychological insights, students learn to evaluate contemporary ideas about happiness, mental health, and human nature beyond purely technical or scientific explanations. The course fosters skills in critical thinking, ethical reflection, and self-understanding that are applicable to fields such as psychology, education, healthcare, social work, leadership, and policy-making. It also supports personal development by helping students articulate their own values and life goals in an increasingly complex, scientifically shaped world. Ultimately, the course enables students to navigate modern life with greater intellectual clarity, ethical awareness, and reflective depth.