Welcome to the School of Philosophy, Melbourne!

Our Courses

Practical Philosophy explores the meaning of wisdom, truth and consciousness and the real nature of the human being.

It draws from the great philosophical teachings of the East and West to help us enjoy a deeper understanding of ourselves, our world and our fellow mankind.

Practical Philosophy offers students an effective and novel approach to the great questions of life: Who am I? How can I be truly happy? How can I be at peace? What is the purpose of my life? How may I realise my full potential?

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About the School

The School of Philosophy, Melbourne, has been offering courses in practical philosophy since 1977.

The School began in London in 1936 when a small group of people came together to study economics, seeking an understanding of the universal laws that govern the relations between people in society. They hoped to discover principles that would help to eliminate the social ills prevailing at that time.

This inquiry soon led to the study of Philosophy, and the School's philosophy courses are now widely available.

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Events

Special Events

Assorted, one-off talks, courses and gatherings that complement the School's Philosophy courses and bring practical philosophy to everyday living.

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Lifestyle & Culture Lectures

The Lifestyle & Culture Lecture Series presents unique and exciting talks that explore issues of health and well-being, the arts and society, and the quest for happiness and self-knowledge.

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Cultural Day

The Cultural Day is a wonderful opportunity for 1st and 2nd year students—along with family and friends—to take part in a range of workshops spanning the arts and sciences.

The Cultural Day is held in March and November each year.

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Plato Summer School

Each January, the School of Philosophy organizes and hosts a Plato Summer School, providing a wonderful opportunity for students to engage with Plato and his world.

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Features

Eckhart Tolle: The ‘Power of Now’ Tour

Eckhart Tolle, the renowned author of the The Power of Now, was in Melbourne on Tuesday 10th March 2009 at the Melbourne Convention Centre. He gave a two hour talk. It was very well attended…

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Moving into Autumn

As the days grow shorter, the air grows crisper and the trees lose their leaves, Autumn shows us the majesty of maturity and the beauty and ease of letting go. Nature provides a time to draw all energy inwards, to cast off what is no longer needed and prepare for the stillness and modesty of Winter…

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Opportunity out of Crisis

Ian Mason, Head of Economics and Law and Principal of the School of Economic Science in London, presented a challenging perspective on the Global Economic Crisis on 9th February 2009.

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The Ventriloquist’s Dummy

What does it signify that some things or notions we deem to be ours so that we exclude the rest? Is it anything more than the mind applying the label ‘mine’ to some things and not others?

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To Love A Garden

I have often wondered why so many of us love gardens. We devote countless hours working and relaxing in gardens, where we delight in the beauty of flowers, nurture edible crops, share time with friends and loved ones, where we dream our dreams and simply rest in the quiet and peace of nature…

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Playful Parenting

As a new father and teacher for nine years, I’m now realising the liberation in consciously engaging with children in a reciprocal relationship of play. To free myself of my own ‘adult agenda’, I find it useful to return to first principles—principles underlying the Play of Nature and encompassing all its myriad relationships.

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