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Overview for Homeschooling Teens (12-17 y.o.) Programmes for Term 3 forthcoming

Term break intensive:

13-17 y.o. Special PHILOSOPHY 5-DAY PROGRAMME (Margaret River 7th – 11th July 2025; Balingup 14th – 18th July 2025) – during term break – 9:30-11:30 am and 12:20-2:30 pm

Location to be determined. Face to face would involve Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday (with Thursday being a home-based notes and writing). It is expected that a good portion of the book will have been pre-read (or audio-booked) prior to commencement. Cost $280. Subject to sufficient interest. The venues in Margaret River and in Balingup to be confirmed subject to sufficient interest.

Please note that this intensive is scheduled during non-school term, and is open to participants who are currenly attending schools, as well as, of course, home-schoolers.

Book: Written in 1941, Susanne Langer’s PHILOSOPHY IN A NEW KEY became quite popular from the time of its publication until the late 1960s. It was far more influential than its relative fall into obscurity and its associated oblivious unknown-ness suggests. The book is somewhat demanding, yet not too much, rather encouraging reflection with which teens can engage (sometimes with greater ease than adults!).

PLEASE obtain a physical copy of the book – or print the pdf. A pdf version is available online here and from numerous other places.

for a brief overview… here are some quick points (some of which we will overlook):

Susanne K. Langer’s Philosophy in a New Key (1942) is a seminal work that explores how humans create meaning through symbols, extending beyond language to encompass art, music, myth, and ritual. The book is structured into several chapters, each delving into different facets of symbolic thought. Below is a chapter-by-chapter breakdown highlighting three key points from each:

Chapter 1: The New Key
– Symbolism as Central to Human Understanding: Langer posits that the human mind transforms experiences through symbolic processes, making symbolism fundamental to cognition.
– Critique of Logical Positivism: She challenges the limitations of logical positivism, advocating for a broader philosophical approach that includes symbolic forms.
– Introduction of a New Philosophical Approach: Langer introduces the idea that a new philosophical perspective is needed to account for the symbolic nature of human thought.

Chapter 2: Symbolic Transformation
– Human Capacity for Symbolic Transformation: Humans uniquely transform experiences into symbols, enabling abstract thought and cultural development.
– Distinction Between Signs and Symbols: Langer differentiates between signs (direct representations) and symbols (which carry meaning beyond the immediate).
– Role of Symbols in Culture: She emphasizes that symbols are foundational to cultural expressions and institutions.

Chapter 3: The Logic of Signs and Symbols
– Analysis of Symbolic Logic: Langer explores how symbols function within logical structures, extending beyond linguistic symbols.
– Understanding Meaning Through Symbols: She discusses how meaning is constructed and conveyed through symbolic systems.
– Implications for Knowledge and Communication: The chapter examines the impact of symbolic logic on our understanding of knowledge and communication.

Chapter 4: Discursive and Presentational Forms
– Discursive Symbols: These are linear and sequential, such as language, where meaning unfolds over time.
– Presentational Symbols: These convey meaning holistically, as seen in art and music, where the whole is perceived simultaneously.
– Importance in Aesthetics: Langer argues that recognizing these forms is crucial for understanding artistic expression.

Chapter 5: Language
– Language as a Symbolic System: Language is a primary tool for expressing and shaping human thought.
– Limitations of Language: While powerful, language has limitations in conveying certain experiences, necessitating other symbolic forms.
– Evolution of Language: Langer discusses how language evolves and adapts to express complex ideas.

Chapter 6: Life-Symbols: The Roots of Sacrament
– Origins of Sacramental Symbols: Explores how symbols emerge from life experiences and rituals.
– Function of Sacraments: Sacraments serve as symbolic acts that convey deeper meanings and values.
– Cultural Significance: These symbols play a vital role in shaping and maintaining cultural identities.

Chapter 7: Life-Symbols: The Roots of Myth
– Myth as Symbolic Narrative: Myths are stories that use symbols to convey fundamental truths and values.
– Role in Human Understanding: Myths help individuals make sense of the world and their place in it.
– Influence on Culture: Mythical symbols influence cultural norms, behaviors, and institutions.

Chapter 8: On Significance in Music
– Music as a Symbolic Form: Music conveys meaning through its structure and form, not through direct representation.
– Expression of Emotion: Music symbolizes emotional experiences, allowing listeners to connect with feelings.
– Universality of Musical Symbols: Despite cultural differences, music’s symbolic nature allows for universal emotional understanding.

Chapter 9: The Genesis of Artistic Import
– Creation of Artistic Meaning: Art derives its significance from the symbolic forms it employs.
– Artist’s Role: Artists craft symbols that resonate with shared human experiences.
– Interpretation of Art: Understanding art involves engaging with its symbolic content on multiple levels.

Chapter 10: The Fabric of Meaning
– Interconnectedness of Symbols: Meaning arises from the complex interplay of various symbolic forms.
– Dynamic Nature of Meaning: Meaning is not static; it evolves as symbols interact and contexts change.
– Comprehensive Understanding: A full grasp of human experience requires acknowledging the multifaceted nature of symbolic meaning.

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