PHL - Philosophy

Introduces nature and purpose of philosophical reflection. Emphasis on questions concerning metaphysics, epistemology, religion, ethics and social/political philosophy. Students encouraged to develop their own ideas in dialogue with selected readings and other class members.

Examines nature and structure of reason as it bears upon communication, inquiry and argument. Emphasis on normative and critical functions of reason, basic rules of clear thinking and speech, and evaluation of arguments.

Covers a historical and thematic survey of social and political theories. Topics include classical social and political theories, communism, fascism, liberalism, human rights, economic justice, nationalism, international relations, and the rights and welfare of the environment, animals, and future generations.

Introduces elements and techniques involved in critical thinking, where critical thinking means the ability to recognize and evaluate arguments as they appear in natural language. Does not address formal or symbolic logic.

Overview of philosophical and religious ethical systems and their applications in personal and social contexts. Emphasis on understanding one's own ethical system.

A philosophical examination of the arts and aesthetic experience. Includes aesthetic theories of Artistotle, Kant, Nietzsche, and Grey as well as direct experience in the arts such as literature, poetry, painting, cinema, theatre, and performance art. Crosslisted with ENG 37223 and LAS 37223.

An investigation of the body, mind and spirit in self, culture and nature as developed by Ken Wilber and the Integral Institute. Students explore truth in the domains of philosophy, psychology and eastern spirituality and consider ways to improve their well-being.

An investigation of historical prerequisites and the meaning of existentialism. Readings include Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Kafka, Rilke, Sartre, Heidegger, Dostoevsky, etc. Crosslisted with ENG 38223, LAS 38223.

Course deals with classic and contemporary environmental ethics and focuses on the controversies shaping the relationship between humans and nature, both now and in the future. Topics include theories of intrinsic value of nature, wilderness preservation, deep ecology, ecofeminism, and nature friendly Native American spirituality. Crosslisted with LAS 40023.

Course deals with one of the important historical eras in philosophy, such as ancient philosophy, modern philosophy, or contemporary philosophy.