Catalog 2010 - 2011

A topical introduction to philosophy through the study of selected problems and figures. Emphasis will be placed upon learning to read, write and think critically. Students may take more than one topic. Specific topics are listed below.

A study of how we ought to live. .

A study of the ethical issues relating to the research and practice of medicine. Topics may include: genetic testing, reproductive and end-of-life decisions, the role of value in assessing evidence and the definition of "disease." .

A study of the nature of justice. Specific topics may include: civil disobedience, punishment v. rehabilitation, and the death penalty. .

An introduction to philosophy through the investigation of the links between what we know about the world and how we should act. Topics may include: Is there such a thing as moral knowledge or is morality merely a matter of individual or cultural preferences? Is knowing what is right necessary for consistently doing what is right? If I really know that something is right, does that mean I will I do it? Readings may include selections from Plato, Aristotle, Kant, and Nietzsche.

An introduction to symbolic logic through first order predicate logic.

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A close reading and consideration of Plato's masterpiece, The Republic, focusing on its theories of justice, the good life, education and their interrealtions.

Prerequisites: Permission

Intended for non-majors or freshman/sophomore level students who have declared a philosophy major or minor. See independent study guidelines .

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A study of topics in feminist philosophy, which may include political theory and ethics.

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A survey of Western philosophy from the pre-Socratics through Aristotle.

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A survey of Western philosophy from Hobbes to Kant.

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A study of selected topics in the thought of Marx, Nietzsche and Freud with special emphasis on their critiques of rationality and modern culture, and contemporary responses.

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A study of historical and contemporary works in ethical theory.

Prerequisites: FYS-101

A critical examination of environmental ethics and the philosophical theories on which they depend. Topics may include: animal welfare, utilitarianism, deep ecology, the land ethic and eco-feminism.

Prerequisites: One course in philosophy or religion.

(Same as REL-351.) A philosophical consideration of such fundamental ideas as the existence and nature of God, evil, miracles, freedom and immortality with special attention given to religious language and to representative systems of thought.

Prerequisites: One of: REL-115, REL-300, REL-351, REL-352 or REL-353; or one course in philosophy.

An intermediate level survey of the major classical and contemporary philosophical approaches to the defining topics and problems of Buddhism, including "no self," "emptiness," "compassion" and "enlightenment."

Prerequisites: Permission

Prereq.: Permission. Directed readings in philosophy on a topic selected by the student, to be evaluated by quizzes, examinations, journal and/or papers, as agreed upon with the instructor.

Prerequisites: PHI-311

A study of selected problems through the works of such contemporary figures as Derrida, Foucault, Rorty, Irigaray and Habermas.

Prerequisites: PHI-311

A survey of philosophers in the analytic tradition.

Prerequisites: PHI-311

A study of selected figures and problems in 20th century Continental philosophy with special emphasis on phenomenology and existentialism.

Prerequisites: Permission

Research studies in philosophy for qualified students. See independent study guidelines.

Prerequisites: Permission

Advanced study in philosophy with intensive reading in such topics as ethics, aesthetics, metaphysics or the theory of knowledge, as selected by the instructors. Most class discussion is student led. Philosophy majors are required to enroll in the seminar each year, though freshmen, sophomores, and juniors may petition to be excused. Philosophy minors are required to enroll once in order to complete their minor, but may enroll more often. Students completing their minor or major will present a paper to the class. Course is one credit per year for a maximum of four credits.

Prerequisites: Permission

A capstone experience for senior philosophy majors in which they will propose, research, write, and revise a senior thesis for formal presentation.