In 1947, University of Chicago educators Robert Maynard Hutchins, then-president of the university, and Professor Mortimer J. Adler founded the Great Books Foundation to bring together avid readers to discuss enduring ideas and issues. Three years later, they collaborated with Walter Paepcke to establish the Aspen Institute, with which the Great Books program remains closely aligned today.
This five-week program invites participants to explore some of the most influential works in Western thought through guided weekly discussions. Moderators Susan Carrese and Sandi Kister will lead the 2027 series, which will explore the theme “Exploring the Good Life Through the Great Books.”
Exploring the Good Life Through the Great Books
January 27: Exploring an Aristotelian Idea of the Good
February 3: Exploring a Judeo-Christian Idea of the Good
February 10: Exploring the Machiavellian Critique of the Good
February 17: Exploring the Nietzschean Critique of the Good
February 24: Do Humans Need an Idea of the Good? A Common Good?
Fee: $325, includes all sessions, refreshments, and reading materials. Scholarships are available.
Sessions will take place at the Koch Building on the Aspen Meadows campus.
Registration for the 2027 Great Books Series will open on Thursday, November 12 at 10:00 am Mountain.
