This class is a philosophical exploration of human nature. We begin with Socrates, who helps us understand what philosophical inquiry is. Socrates also opens up the discussion of the meaning of and purpose of human existence. Through the thought of Aristotle and St. Thomas, we will address two fundamental questions: what is human nature, and what does it mean to be a human person? At the end of the class, we will consider several contemporary challenges to the perennial Catholic thought on human nature and personhood. Students who complete this course should be able to have a clear understanding of what philosophy is and how the Catholic intellectual tradition has come to understand human nature and personhood.