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 and purpose of human existence. We next proceed to study the tradition of thought associated with Aristotle and St. Thomas. Through our study we will addresses two fundamental questions: what is human nature, and what does it mean to be a human person? In the final section of the class, several contemporary challenges to the perennial philosophical thought on human nature and personhood will be considered.