200
An examination of the origins of philosophical speculation in Western culture. Special emphasis is given to the writings of Plato and Aristotle, the cultural setting for these writings, and their continued effect on Western civilization.
PHIL 200 is the initial course in the History of Philosophy sequence.
An examination of philosophical thought from early Christian times through the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. Special emphasis is given to the period's neo-Platonic and neo-Aristotelian synthesis. Some acquaintance with Plato and Aristotle's work is advised.
PHIL 202 is the second course in the History of Philosophy sequence.
A survey of the Islamic faith and its expression in a variety of cultures around the world. Because Islam is reality-defining for its adherents, the religion is examined by reviewing its philosophy, theology, history, and social dimension.
An ethical examination of human responsibilities and obligations to the environment and other species. The course includes a consideration of different environmental perspectives as well as applications to local issues like land use, wilderness protection, and food
The ethical investigation of business, business life, and their relationship to the good life. Course content includes an analysis of economic justice, corporate and personal responsibility, employee and consumer rights, and the meaning of work. Case studies give students practice in making rationally defensible moral judgments in accord with sound moral principles.
An examination of moral issues that arise in medicine and related fields. Course topics include the right to life, forgoing medical treatment, informed consent, confidentiality, medical experimentation, and reproductive control. Case studies give students practice in making rationally defensible moral judgments in accord with sound moral principles.
An exploration of the philosophical reflection on God and other topics key to religious thinking and practice. Course material includes arguments for and against the existence of God, the relation between theology and philosophy, the problem of evil, and the nature of religious experience. This course would be of special interest to students in theology.
An historical overview of the principal philosophies of Eastern cultures, which may include Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, and/or Taoism. Class lectures include an analysis of the philosophical status of Eastern thought.
An exploration of the philosophical aspects of science and its methods. Central to this study is the influence of modern scientific inquiry on other disciplines, society, and religion.
An analysis of concepts used in discussions of art and beauty and the application of this analysis to a variety of art forms. Class discussions develop the student's skills in art criticism and aesthetic recognition.
A critical review of theories of political, social, and economic organizationthat have shaped Western social and political thinking in the 19th and 20th centuries. The philosophical underpinnings of "political theory" will be explored through a close examination of historical events and the relationship between theory and practice.
An investigation of main concepts and key issues at the heart of gender feminist studies. Particular attention is devoted to the examination of major theories, their specific contribution, their critique, and the broad spectrum of perspectives at stake.
Special Topics courses include ad-hoc courses on various selected topics that are not part of the regular curriculum, however they may still fulfill certain curricular requirements. Special topics courses are offered at the discretion of each department and will be published as part of the semester course schedule - view available sections for more information. Questions about special topics classes can be directed to the instructor or department chair.