Abstract:

The main goals of the course are twofold: Firstly, to provide a deep understanding of the economic history of the Western world and the globe; and secondly, to examine human history through economic concepts.

At first glance, the connection between these two realms – history and economics – might seem somewhat unusual. Economics is a discipline that examines human actions beyond the historical conditions in which they live. On the contrary, the study of history assumes that one cannot comprehend individuals without considering the historical moment they inhabit, or as individuals influenced by historical events.

However, any examination of history without economics, and of economics without history, remains only a partial analysis. For instance, the question arises as to why economic models don't operate in the same manner across different countries. The answer lies in the unique "histories" of each country, shaping the context in which their economies f?unction.

Abstract:

What makes a manager and businessman to a successful one? What made Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Richard Branson, Jeff Bezos and Warren Buffett to the managers who changed the world? Is it just the technology or is it their management style?

Is it the financial investment or the human investment?

In the course "the Philosophy of Managers Who Changed the World", we will try to answer these questions by discussing and learning several levels of management: the conceptual, the organizational and the practical.

During the course, we will learn about the managers who in their decisions changed the way we use technology, watch TV, invest our money and live our lives, and we will look -

Abstract:

This course provides basic introduction

to classical rhetorical theory and modern argumentation theory.

We shall begin with a general discussion on rhetoric, as the art of speech and persuasion, and explore key concepts as developed and used in rhetorical literature over the centuries.

We will discuss the classical distinction between speech types,

persuasion faculties (logos, ethos, pathos), the role of audience and truth (Doxa), and the func tion of style and figurative language. We shall continue with a close examination of the rhetorical toolbox, and more specifically, arguments in public discourse. We will understand the basic structure of logical arguments (premises, warrants and conclusions); overview different types of arguments

(such as generalizations and analogies); we will learn to identify logical fallacies such as irrelevance or appeals to emotions. We shall also explore character-based arguments, such as appeal to authority, credibility (rhetorical ethos)  and ad-hominem. The course will also offer some standard tools for the practical evaluation of arguments and critical thinking on persuasive communication. The theoretical and methodological discussion will be illustrated with a variety of examples from current political debate, commercial discourse and journalistic texts.

This course is taken as introduction at the Afeka debate club. Participating students could participate in the annual debate competition and earn a trip to the European universities debate competition. Students are encouraged to take Dr. Kuti Shoam