Darren Harper – Philosophy and Creative Writing
"As an adult education tutor I focus on the areas of Philosophy, Literature and Creative Writing. I gained a 1st class honours degree in English & Creative Writing in 2012, followed by a PGCE (Lifelong Learning) in 2014 and am now undertaking a BA in Philosophy. I have taught at A Level in both English Literature and Creative Writing, and over the past two years have taught Creative Writing to undergraduates.
"For several years I have been teaching around the UK delivering residential courses at Dillington House in Somerset, Knuston Hall in Northamptonshire, the Green Park Hotel in Perthshire and, of course, Higham Hall in the Lake District. Additionally, I have also started to offer a range of on-line courses in these subjects on my website darrenharper.net and post frequently on my Facebook page Darren Harper Courses.
"I have written theatre reviews, plays, short stories and contributed to an anthology of graphic short stories. I have also interviewed, chaired and given both talks and workshops at the Borderlines Book Festival and Hexham Book Festival. Additionally, I have given philosophy talks to U3A groups, writing workshops to writing groups and delivered CPD workshops on Stoicism.
"My main interests in philosophy are political philosophy, comparative philosophy and religion, aesthetics and ethics, especially applied ethics, existentialism and Stoicism. I enjoy applying philosophical ideas to contemporary issues in an attempt to challenge ‘the tyranny of custom’." D.H.
We design our courses to meet the expectations of three particular types of student:
- those who already have undergone some Philosophy studies including those who feel ready to tackle the meaty stuff
- those who would enjoy a user-friendly introduction to themes. Look out especially for Darren's courses titled THE LAZY PHILOSOPHER'S GUIDE TO...
Connect with Darren:
STOICISM: CULTIVATING RESILIENCE AND TRANQUILITY WITHIN
Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United KingdomEmbark on a transformative journey into Stoicism and delve into the profound teachings of Stoic philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus. This course goes beyond positive thinking, offering practical insights to navigate challenges with inner strength and serenity. Explore the timeless wisdom of Stoicism through immersive discussions, reflective activities, meditations and literary explorations,
TALK & TEA: A PHILOSOPHER’S GUIDE TO PLEASURE
Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United KingdomEver contemplated the intricacies of pleasure? Can John Stuart Mill’s philosophy distinguish between higher and lower pleasures guide us toward a more fulfilling life? How does Epicurus’ pursuit of tranquil pleasure challenge modern hedonism, encouraging a more thoughtful approach to gratification? Join us as we explore these questions and others, allowing pleasure to be our guide through
AN INTRODUCTION TO ZEN AND JAPANESE PHILOSOPHY
Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United KingdomJapanese philosophy has historically been a fusion of both indigenous Shinto and continental religions such as Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Having spent centuries in the orbit of both Chinese philosophy and Indian philosophy, modern Japanese thought draws on both of these cultural influences, resulting in a rich religio-philosophical worldview which underpins Japanese aesthetic concepts such
TALK & TEA: A PHILOSOPHER’S GUIDE TO NATURE
Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United KingdomEver pondered the profound mysteries of nature? Can Arne Naess’s deep ecology unveil the wisdom inherent in our connection with the natural world? How does Soga Ryojin’s assertion, “We cannot rise above nature,” resonate in a world balancing technological marvels and ecological consciousness? Join us in exploring these questions, as we attempt to guide ourselves towards a
PHILOSOPHY AND FILM
Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United KingdomImmerse yourself in an intellectual sojourn as we navigate the interplay between existential philosophy and the visual language of film, where the profound meets the poetic to forge a unique tapestry of introspection and reflection. Following a now-familiar format, this course is built around a series of structured sessions involving screenings and guided discussion, and
TALK & TEA: A PHILOSOPHER’S GUIDE TO AGEING
Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United KingdomEver pondered the philosophical intricacies of ageing? Can Confucian virtues guide us through the challenges of later life, emphasizing harmony and virtue? How do David Hume’s skeptical reflections on personal identity and time influence our pursuit of happiness in the twilight years? Join us on an intellectually stimulating journey where these questions unravel the profound