Philosophy of Animals
This course examines the moral status of non-human animals in the western philosophical tradition. We will read such philosophers as Aristotle, Aquinas, Kant, Bentham, and Singer. The course also looks at the mercy perspective developed by Primatt and Scully.
Existentialism
Working our way through a family of thinkers often labeled existentialists, such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Marcel, Heidegger, Sartre, and Camus, we shall guide our inquiry into this school of philosophy by means of a few shared themes: freedom, anguish, responsibility and meaning.
Political Philosophy
Fundamental political questions are explored through readings from some classical but mainly from contemporary sources. The link between philosophy and practical political themes is emphasized as much as possible.
Philosophy of Sex
This course provides an introduction to some of the basic themes and texts, both traditional and contemporary, related to the philosophical study of sexuality.
Philosophy of Death and Living
This course provides an introduction to traditional and contemporary themes and texts related to this topic. In asking how human beings can be happy in the face of death, it emphasizes the act of living.
Philosophy of Technology
This course examines philosophically how our lives are shaped by technology and the relation of technology to science, art, and politics.
Philosophy of Law
This course includes a study of major legal traditions and considers topics such as: justice, ethics and law, legal reasoning, and philosophical issues in evidence and procedure.
American Philosophy
This course covers some main figures in American pragmatism, including both classical (e.g., Peirce, James, and Dewey) and recent (e.g., Quine, Putnam, and Rorty).
Oriental Philosophy
This course provides an introduction to Oriental thought through the study of traditions such as Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
Historical Courses
Historical courses are designed for majors, minors, and serious students of philosophy. Prerequisite: at least two 100-level or 200-level courses or instructor's permission.