Aristotle's Organon - UChicago | Graham School
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Course - HUAS14006
Aristotle’s Organon
This class will examine Aristotle’s logical texts (
Categories
On Interpretation
Prior Analytics
Posterior Analytics,
Topics
, and
Sophistical Refutations)
, collectively called the Organon.
View Available Sections
Deadline
June 9, 2026
Format
In-Person
Tuition
$540
Next Start Date
June 17, 2026
Course Description
Aristotle’s logical texts (
Categories
On Interpretation
Prior Analytics
Posterior Analytics
Topics
, and
Sophistical Refutations
) are collectively called the Organon, which in Greek means “tool.” These texts develop philosophical tools that Aristotle employs all across his oeuvre — and that have been employed by philosophers ever since. The
Categories
lays out the most basic genera or categories of being (e.g., substance, quality, quantity), and
On Interpretation
shows the logical relations that emerge when these genera are combined. Then, the
Prior Analytics
develops the Western world’s very first system of deductive logic, which is grounded in the
Topics
’ account of dialectic and mobilized in the
Posterior Analytics
’ account of demonstrative scientific knowledge. Finally,
Sophistical Refutations
defines several forms of fallacious argument. By studying the Organon, students will acquire tools that not only heighten their engagement with Aristotle’s ethical, political, and theoretical writings but also with the broader history of philosophy and science.
Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites for this course.
Required Texts
Aristotle,
The Complete Works of Aristotle, Volume 1
, Princeton University Press, ISBN: 9780691016504
Available Course Sections
Date & Time
Details
Format
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How can I best prepare for class?
Complete any assigned reading and come prepared to participate actively in classroom discussion. While not required, we offer an optional course to prepare students to engage with challenging works:
How to Read Classic Texts
. While this is presented as an introductory course for the Basic Program, students in other programs or open enrollment courses are also welcome to participate and grow their skills.
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Anyone who is interested in immersing themselves in these topics and engaging in deep discovery with others is welcome to take part in this course.
UChicago has a reputation for academic rigor. Will I be able to meaningfully participate in the classroom discussions?
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