Philosophy

The course introduces the student to major problems discussed by key figures in the history of Western philosophy. Problems, such as the proof of God's existence, the nature of reality, and what counts as knowledge, are examined through a careful study of selected writings of Plato, Hume, and others. Basic skills of careful reading, critical analysis, and argumentative writing and discussion are stressed.

This course introduces the student to methods of ethical thinking by applying them to specific issues such as abortion, human sexuality, nuclear weaponry, and preservation of the environment, among others. The course also examines the nature of morality itself and the central role that moral character plays in making moral decisions.

This course aims at sharpening the critical thinking skills of the student by examining in some depth the nature of inductive reasoning, the fallacies that may be committed, and the nature of certain classical and contemporary forms of deductive argument.

This course, taught by a philosopher and a member of a language department when possible, examines philosophical concepts, insights, and positions as they emerge from the study of selected literary works. Issues such as the relationship between literary form and philosophical content also will be examined.

This variable content course covers major epochs and figures in the history of philosophy. Courses offered on a periodic, rotating basis include surveys of ancient and medieval philosophy, modern philosophy, recent continental philosophy, and courses on major figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Kierkegaard, and Nietzche. This course satisfies the Humanities or a second Religion requirement.

This variable content course offers students an opportunity to probe theoretical ethical issues. Offerings include: The Ethics of War and Nuclear Weaponry, Ethics and the Environment, and the Ethics of the Academy.

A philosophical examination of the traditional issues raised by the Judeo-Christian religious tradition, e.g., the proofs for God's existence, the question about knowing the nature of God, the meaning of religious language, the problem of evil, etc. The course will also briefly examine what philosophical problems arise in a non-Western religion, e.g., Hinduism or Buddhism. This course satisfies the Humanities or a second Religion requirement.

A variable content course designed to offer special topics in philosophy.

An introduction on how to conduct research through the focus on one topic from the following disciplines: philosophy, religion, or classics. The class will focus on learning how to distinguish and evaluate primary and secondary sources; write a researched paper; recognize different approaches (theoretical) to a given topic; and become familiar with the work of representative classicists/philosophers/ theologians/historians.