WISE DECISION-MAKING IN A COMPLEX WORLD
Saturdays, 3:45-4:45 PM
September 19, October 3 and 24, November 7.
Harvard Catholic Center/St. Paul’s, Cambridge, MA
Taught by Sarah Byers, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Boston College
This seminar examines practical wisdom, traditionally called “the virtue of prudence.” Practical wisdom recognizes what is truly good in any situation and discerns the best way to achieve it, guiding both moral choices and morally neutral decisions. Prudence avoids rashness and thoughtlessness, but also excessive caution and selfish calculation. We will study this virtue for both theoretical understanding and practical applications.
Brief readings will be distributed for discussion; no “homework” necessary. Participants are invited attend the 5:00 PM Mass at St. Paul’s and continue the conversation over dinner in a Harvard Square restaurant if they wish.
OPEN TO BOSTON AREA STUDENTS - REGISTRATION REQUIRED
IN-PERSON ONLY
Andrea della Robbia, Prudence, Glazed terracotta, 64 3/4 in, c. 1475, New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art
Supported by the Lynch Foundation