Halifax Thinks is an opportunity for those interested in philosophy, literature, and art to take a University-level course that works with your busy schedule. Its curriculum is based on the interdisciplinary Great Books model offered in the Foundation Year Programme (FYP) at the University of King’s College.
This course is offered by donation, with a suggested donation of $400. All proceeds support The Halifax Humanities Society’s other programs: Halifax Humanities 101 and the Angus Johnston Seminar. These programs offer free, low-barrier education in the Humanities to adults living on low incomes or facing other barriers to university.
By participating in Halifax Thinks, you support Humanities education for individuals who would otherwise lack access. The Halifax Humanities Society is a registered charity in the province of Nova Scotia. (#864790878R0001)
How does Halifax Thinks work?
Every two weeks from October to April, students receive a recording of a lecture by a university professor on the text that we are studying. You listen to the lecture and read the text in your own time.
Two weeks after receiving each lecture, the class meets with the professor for a tutorial where you you have the opportunity to discuss the text in-depth with the professor an other classmates in a relaxed and friendly environment. All tutorials take place on Sunday afternoons.
There are two tutorial options: an in-person tutorial that meets on the campus of the University of King’s College in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and an online tutorial that meets on Zoom and is open to participants anywhere in Canada.
What does Halifax Thinks study?
Each year, Halifax Thinks covers one historical era in the history of Western thought and beyond, from the ancient Mediterranean to the contemporary. We read works of philosophy, literature, political theory, and theology from each of these eras. Our focus is on understanding these texts in their own terms, and listening to how they speak to one another — and to us.
In 2026-2027 we will study the Medieval World. We will read works including Augustine’s Confessions, Dante’s Divine Comedy, and many more works of Medieval philosophy, poetry, and literature.
There are no papers, no tests, and no pressure. Halifax Thinks is an opportunity to read and learn in conversation with others who also love great books.
How do I register?
Registration for Halifax Thinks is now open for the 2026-27 year.
The class begins on October 5, 2026 and ends on April 25, 2027.