This course delves into some of the most intriguing paradoxes and thought experiments in philosophy. From the Ship of Theseus to Meno's Paradox, we will explore questions that challenge our understanding of identity, knowledge, time, and responsibility. No prior knowledge of philosophy is required. The class will include a mix of lecture and discussion. Generally, the first class of the week will outline the problem, while the second class of each week will discuss solutions. The course is designed to be accessible to beginners while also offering depth for those more familiar with philosophical concepts.

Week 1: The Ship of Theseus: If you replace every part of a ship, is it still the same ship?
Week 2. The Sorites Paradox: If you remove one grain of sand from a heap, when does it stop being a heap?
Week 3:  Mary's Room: A thought experiment about a scientist who knows everything about the color red but has never seen it.
Week 4: Zeno's Paradoxes: A series of paradoxes dealing with motion and change.
Week 5: The Liar Paradox: The statement "This statement is false" creates a paradox because if it's true, then it must be false.
Week 6:  The Unexpected Hanging Paradox: A prisoner is told he will be hanged unexpectedly, leading to a paradox in predicting the day of the hanging.
Week 7: The Grandfather Paradox: What happens if you travel back in time and prevent your grandfather from meeting your grandmother?
Week 8: Collective Responsibility: Who is responsible when many people contribute to some harm?
Week 9: Meno's Paradox: If you know what you're looking for, then you don't need to look for it, as you already know it. If you don't know what you're looking for, then you won't be able to find it, as you don't know what it is.