Introduction to Korean Philosophy and Culture

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/introduction-to-korean-philosophy-and-culture

Introduction

# Course Review: Introduction to Korean Philosophy and Culture ## Overview The "Introduction to Korean Philosophy and Culture" course on Coursera offers an insightful journey into the rich tapestry of Korean philosophy and its cultural background. Designed for everyone—from K-drama enthusiasts to philosophy novices—this course welcomes participants with no prior knowledge of philosophy. The course's aim is to illuminate the unique characteristics of Korean philosophy and its development in the context of Asian thought, primarily influenced by Chinese philosophy. As interest in Korean culture surges globally, it's surprising that relatively few educational resources delve into its philosophical underpinnings. This course fills that gap, inviting learners to explore Korea's distinctive philosophical landscape and understand its relevance in contemporary discussions about identity, culture, and thought. ## Syllabus Breakdown ### 1. What is Korean Philosophy? The course begins by contextualizing Korean philosophy within a broader philosophical conversation. It examines the key differences between Korean and Western philosophies while considering the significant influence of Chinese philosophy on the Korean intellectual tradition. This foundational understanding is crucial for appreciating Korea's unique take on philosophical inquiry. ### 2. How Does Innovation Occur at Cultural Boundaries? One of the course's most compelling themes is how Korea has consistently adapted and innovated through cultural exchanges, particularly with Chinese influences. This module addresses how Korean cultural identity has been shaped over centuries, exploring the synthesis of external ideas and indigenous practices. It's a fascinating dive into how cultural borders are not limits but rather sites of creativity and transformation. ### 3. What are the Core Debates of Korean Philosophy? In this section, learners explore two intriguing characteristics associated with Koreans—affection and argumentative nature. The course highlights two essential debates in Korean philosophical history: the Four-Seven Debate and the Horak Debate. These discussions help illustrate the dynamic nature of Korean philosophy, emphasizing how local culture influences philosophical discourse. It’s a wonderful way to engage with both historical and contemporary issues. ### 4. How Do You Think Through Korean Philosophy? Finally, the course culminates in an exploration of how Korean philosophical ideas can reshape our thinking about the world. Participants will gain insights into core ideas that have stood the test of time and are reflected in the Korean language. This closing module encourages learners to apply Korean philosophical concepts to contemporary issues, broadening their critical thinking skills. ## Personal Experience and Recommendations Having taken this course, I can confidently recommend it to anyone interested in expanding their horizons. The lectures are engaging, often accompanied by rich multimedia resources that enhance understanding. Each module thoughtfully builds on the last, preventing information overload while progressively deepening the learner’s comprehension of complex ideas. The instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about Korean culture and philosophy, guiding students through the material with clarity and enthusiasm. The interactive elements, such as quizzes and discussion forums, encourage active participation and foster a sense of community among learners. Whether you are a beginner seeking to understand the foundations of Korean philosophy, a cultural aficionado intrigued by the interplay between Eastern and Western thought, or someone looking to connect deeper with the cultural narratives that permeate K-dramas and K-pop, this course is an excellent choice. In conclusion, "Introduction to Korean Philosophy and Culture" not only enriches your understanding of Korean thought but also encourages a reflective examination of your own beliefs and cultural assumptions. Embrace this opportunity to explore a captivating subject that is often overlooked and gain valuable insights that can enhance both personal and professional perspectives.

Syllabus

What is Korean philosophy?

This week, we’re going to look at what Korean philosophy is, and what makes it different from the Western philosophy that you might be accustomed to. We’ll also be looking at Chinese philosophy in comparison to Korean philosophy, because it has had a large influence on the evolution of Korean philosophy.

This week, we will look at how Koreans formed their own culture and ideas. What we consider to be “Korean” today is the result of their long-standing self-awareness and tenacious practice of reconstructing the cultures from outside. Among them, the Chinese culture had the deepest influence on pre-modern Korea. We will explore ways Koreans have adapted and innovated at cultural boundaries.

This week, we will cover two traits that are often used to describe Koreans: One is “Koreans are affectionate” and the other is “Koreans are argumentative.” We will focus on these two seemingly contradictory characteristics of Koreans and revisit the two famous debates in the history of Korean philosophy: the Four-Seven Debate and the Horak Debate.

Koreans have developed their way of thinking by innovating on knowledge at cultural boundaries. What they developed are reflected in contemporary Korean language. This week, we are going to talk about the core ideas of Korean philosophy that have endured up till now. We’ll see how we can think differently about the world through these ideas.