How long does it take to complete SmithsonianX: Power and Responsibility: Doing Philosophy with Superheroes?

The total duration of the course is approximately 5 weeks. Since it is generally self-paced, completion time depends entirely on your learning schedule and availability.

Is this course more theory-focused or project-focused?

This course provides a strong mix of conceptual theory and practical application to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Do I get a certificate after completing SmithsonianX: Power and Responsibility: Doing Philosophy with Superheroes?

Yes, a certificate of completion is included, which you can add to your professional profile or resume to showcase your newly acquired skills.

Art & Culture

SmithsonianX: Power and Responsibility: Doing Philosophy with Superheroes

Pow! Bang! Kaboom! Power and Responsibility: Doing Philosophy with Superheroes, a SmithsonianX and Harvard Division of Continuing Education course, blends superheroes narratives with the core areas of philosophy.

Beginner FriendlyCertification IncludedSelf-Paced Learning

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₹4067

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🧠 Recommended for beginners

⚠ Not ideal for advanced users

Learning Journey Context

This course serves as an entry point into Art & Culture, building foundational knowledge before moving on to advanced frameworks or specialized paths.

Career Relevance

Relevant for professionals pursuing roles within Art & Culture.

Quick Facts

5 weeks

SmithsonianX

Beginner

Self-Paced Online

Online Course

edx

English

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What You’ll Learn

Pow! Bang! Kaboom! Superhero stories, first arriving on the scene in the late 1930s, are now among the most popular forms of global entertainment. The study of philosophy has been around for centuries. Power and Responsibility: Doing Philosophy with Superheroes, a SmithsonianX and Harvard Division of Continuing Education course, blends these superheroes narratives with the core areas of philosophy.

SmithsonianX has partnered with the Harvard Division of Continuing Education to bring this course from the Harvard Extension School to edX. This Beginner philosophy course, led by Professor Christopher Robichaud of the Harvard Kennedy School, offers an exciting lens to interpret key philosophical ideas — metaphysics and epistemology, social and political philosophy, ethics, philosophy of mind, existentialism, moral relativism, and much more.

From Superman's embrace of truth, justice, and the American way to Wonder Woman's efforts at promoting peace rather than war, from Spider-Man's personal struggles at balancing his romantic life with his crime fighting exploits to the X-Men's social struggles with combating prejudice, Power and Responsibility: Doing Philosophy with Superheroes will give you the chance to explore philosophy through the many superhero narratives via videos, readings, and a meaningful course community. We invite both those new to philosophy and philosophy lovers to join us on this journey!

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Outcomes

Fundamentals of Beginner philosophy.
The ability to consider, evaluate, and articulate philosophical ideas through superheroes and beyond.
The relationship of superhero identity with ethics and moral philosophy.

See side-by-side differences in learning outcomes