Philosophies of Anxiety

The National Education Association estimated in March 2019 that today’s teens are the most anxious ever. “Philosophies of Anxiety” will explore why by surveying different cultural and historical conversations surrounding anxiety, as well as techniques for treating anxiety such as mindfulness and gratitude. At the same time, the class will challenge students to put today’s conversations into a broader historical and cultural frame. Has anxiety existed as long as humans have, or is it particular to the modern moment? What did anxiety look like in Ancient Greece, or during the first World War? Through studying topics in psychology, philosophy, and religion, students will come to a greater understanding of what anxiety is and how to treat it.