PHL - Philosophy

Introduces philosophy as a discipline, and focuses on the nature and purpose of philosophical reflection. Emphasis on questions concerning metaphysics, epistemology, and social/political philosophy. Students are 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 argument. Emphasis on normative and critical functions of reason, the basic rules of clear thinking and speech, and the evaluation of arguments.

Introduces key issues in ethics and moral philosophy. This course explores issues concerning the nature of well being, the different forms ethical theories can take, and the status of moral claims. Students apply ethical theories to contemporary ethical problems.

Introduces key issues in political philosophy.  Course covers major theories of political philosophy and their application, both historical and contemporary.  Topics include theories of rights, the justification of states and the nature of political representation.

A philosophical examination of the arts and aesthetic experience. This course explores theories of beauty and drama from ancient and contemporary theorists. Students apply aesthetic theories to analyze works of art in multiple domains from different perspectives. Cross-listed 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. Cross-listed with LAS 38123 IDS: Integral Theory.

An examination of key existentialist thinkers. Readings include Kierkegaard, Nietzsch, Sartre, and others. After a survey of existentialist philosophers, students explore works of art from an existentialist perspective.  Cross-listed with ENG 38223 IDS: Existentialism in Philosophy and Arts and LAS 38223 IDS: IDS: Existentialism in Philosophy and Arts.

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, our duties toward the environment, and animal rights. Cross-listed with LAS 40023 IDS: Environmental Ethics.