Philosophy and Critical Thinking

What the course covers

A 12-week NPTEL run that places classical Western philosophy beside the Indian schools of thought, so a learner can compare how each tradition built its arguments. The lectures keep returning to the reasoning itself rather than treating philosophy as a list of names, which is the practical payoff for anyone who wants sharper judgement.

Who it suits

No background in philosophy is assumed, so this works for a curious general reader as well as undergraduates from any stream. It is a sensible first step before tackling primary texts, since the emphasis falls on the structure of an argument rather than on memorising doctrines.

Key takeaways

• A survey of major classical Western and Indian schools, side by side
• Practice in spotting how simple premises carry philosophical weight
• Habits of critical thinking that transfer to other subjects

Taught in English, it is a measured introduction for anyone who wants to think more carefully about belief, reasoning and evidence.