Gregory B. Sadler

Philip K Dick's Philosophical Novels | A 10 Week Online Class In The Study With Sadler Academy

The Study with Sadler Academy is launching a 10‑week, online course titled “Philip K. Dick’s Philosophical Novels.” Instructor Greg Sadler frames the celebrated science‑fiction author as a conduit for deep philosophical inquiry, promising a structured dive into nine of Dick’s novels and selected short stories. Each week features a 90‑minute live session, recorded for lifetime access, supplemented by discussion forums, targeted prompts, and handouts that map characters and themes. The syllabus begins with an overview of Dick’s inter‑novel connections using his own exegesis, then moves through milestones such as *Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?*, *The Man in the High Castle*, and *A Scanner Darkly*, interspersed with relevant interviews and essays. Sadler highlights primary sources like the Vertex interview, where Dick discusses the relationship between writing and reality, and the Library of America editions that anchor the readings. He also points to peripheral works—e.g., “The Little Black Box” and “The Days of Perky Pat”—to illustrate recurring motifs of religion, identity, and the nature of evil. For professionals seeking to sharpen critical thinking, the course offers a rare blend of literary analysis and philosophical rigor, while also tapping into the growing market for niche, lifelong‑learning experiences. Participants gain not only a deeper appreciation of Dick’s influence on contemporary media but also transferable skills in interpreting complex narratives and ethical dilemmas.