How to practically use your own stupidity? - Philosophical coaching, philosophical counseling, and philosophical therapy in the psychologists workshop (introduction). Part I. 2500-PL-PS-FO-20

One of the main assumptions of the programme is the assumption that philosophy is a practical discipline, subservient to man. Such an approach is nothing new in philosophy. Since ancient times, philosophers have emphasized the psychagogical and therapeutic aspects of philosophy. This condition finds more and more place in academic didactics.
If a person can be given knowledge, but cannot be made to think, how can one create the conditions for oneself to think, to be reflective, to be alert? - Not in the privacy of the home or in laboratory conditions, but in everyday life, in contact with loved ones, friends, during the routine of everyday life. Is it possible today to imitate Socrates, who discussed the most difficult things - humanity?
In attempting to answer this question, we will be looking not for what everyone is looking for - wisdom, but for what is often rejected and unnoticed - our own stupidity. In doing so we will be guided by the principle that the wise can become the ones who are not yet wise.
By following this path we will come closer to a deeper understanding of the philosophical aspects of our own belief systems or worldviews. We will apply the recommendations of ancient philosophers to solve philosophical problems related to issues such as: becoming an adult, one's own identity, unexpected change (in life or work), spirituality, cultural conditioning, illness, death and dying, ageing, the meaning of life, morality. The classes are intended as a kind of testing ground in which students will reflect on their own philosophical views. In this way, they will gain knowledge which will be helpful in their future professional work.
Please note that it is not necessary to attend Part II of the course (although you are welcome to do so).
The only condition for taking part in the classes, which have a workshop character, is the willingness to get philosophical! You will be required to prepare a short speech or a scene or... (your own invention) illustrating the text discussed. Choose 1 issue from the reading discussed. Presentation of YOUR own reflections on the selected issue (according to the title of the course, reflections can be in three categories: "silly", "hard to say", "thoughtful"). Each category can be given a maximum and a pass mark . For those with <>, a form of assessment is keeping a philosophical diary from the application of the philosophical exercises.
Aim of the course.
The aim of the course is to develop the ability to
- asking questions and finding own solutions;
- to perceive the consequences of their own and others' statements (examination of justifications, basic assumptions and logical implications)
- to think clearly and logically (explanation, analysis and definition of important terms and concepts);
- following a statement (own and other discussants);
- exploring traditional philosophical theories and their relevance to everyday life issues;
- becoming aware of one's own world-view assumptions;
- using speech (spoken and written) as a tool for working with people;
- the ability to carefully observe their own and others' behaviour.

“Life calls upon man to think.” Today, philosophical counseling, coaching, and therapy draw on ancient psychagogy (the guidance of one’s own soul) as a philosophical practice applied to the resolution of individual problems. Philosophizing can give life direction, but it cannot replace it. The practicing philosopher learns to know oneself in order to later help others in exploring, explaining, expressing, and understanding the philosophical aspects of individual belief systems or worldviews. A seminar with a practical focus, featuring workshop elements, conversations, debates, and spiritual exercises of ancient philosophers. Theoretical objective: to familiarize participants with the principles of ancient philosophical therapies that underlie contemporary practical philosophy and many schools of modern psychotherapy. Practical objective: to delve into oneself through the application of ancient methods of self-knowledge.
Is it possible to emulate Socrates, who spoke in the marketplace about the most difficult of subjects—humanity? In answering this question, we will seek not what everyone seeks—wisdom—but what is often rejected and overlooked—our own foolishness. We will be guided by the principle that “one who is not yet wise can become wise.”
The only requirement for participating in these workshop-style classes is a desire to awaken your own philosophical thinking! The requirement for passing the course is to prepare a short presentation, skit, exercise, or… (your own creative idea) that illustrates the discussed text using active methods. Select 1 topic from the assigned reading. Present your OWN thoughts on the selected topic (in accordance with the course title, thoughts can fall into three categories: “silly,” “hard to say,” “well-thought-out”). In each category, you can receive a maximum and passing grade.

Note! Participation in Part II of the class is not required (though it is welcome).
For those with a “fear of public speaking,” the form of assessment is keeping a philosophical journal using philosophical exercises.
During class, we discuss (philosophize); among other things, we examine our ways of thinking, analyze our life attitudes, engage in philosophical exercises, and step outside our comfort zones.
During class, we do not use cell phones, computers, or other such devices. There is no need to take notes during class (you may do so afterward). In this way, we exercise our memory, mindfulness, and willpower. We need your active participation and “PRESENCE”!

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