COURSES – SPRING 2026 (Under Dev) / History and Philosophy
The courses listed below, in the general area of history and philosophy, are currently offered at Quest.
Click on any title to view the related course page.
ERAS IN AMERICAN HISTORY
Coordinators: Joy Sabella, Bob Gottfried
This course will explore the eras in American history that are distinct periods characterized by unique social, political, economic, and cultural developments.
EXPLORATIONS IN PHILOSOPHY AND LITERATURE
Coordinators: Larry Shapiro, Steve Allen, Bob Belfort
For each session, we will read an essay, classic short story, or excerpt from a play.
HISTORY OF NEW YORK CITY
Coordinators: Ilene Winkler, Susannah Falk-Lewis, Penelope Pi-Sunyer, Michael Wellner
The 1898 consolidation of New York and Brooklyn created the largest and richest city in the United States.
NEW AND CLASSIC ESSAYS
Coordinators: Steve Allen, Bob Belfort, Nina Sanders, Larry Shapiro
Each week the course coordinators will pick an essay designed to provoke new perspectives, to ask us to question assumptions, and to encourage thoughtful discussion.
PROFILES IN COURAGE
Coordinators: Wayne Cotter, Tracey Lee, Ken Sasmor
Courage seems to be in short supply these days among many of our elected officials, academic leaders, and captains of industry.
TIME: THE WONDER OF IT
Coordinators: Andrea Irvine, David Bartash, Marion Schulthies
Think of “time” as our common starting point – and then watch it unfold in every direction.