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Course Descriptions — Philosophy (PHIL)

PHIL 100 Introduction to Philosophy (3)

An introduction to the literature, problems, and methods of philosophy. The subject is approached either by studying some of the main figures in philosophic thought or by considering some central, recurring problems of philosophy. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 125 or PHIL 100.

PHIL 110 Thinking for Yourself (3)

An examination of methods for thinking analytically about realworld problems and solving them. Emphasis is on using inductive and deductive reasoning, proper argumentation, accepted methods of analysis, and synthesis of ideas; recognizing informal logical fallacies; and understanding the role of presuppositions and nonlogical factors as they apply to scientific, social, ethical, political, and other contemporary problems.

PHIL 140 Contemporary Moral Issues (3)

An exploration of how philosophical analysis can be a foundation for thinking clearly about moral issues. Problems analyzed include such widely debated issues as abortion, euthanasia, the death penalty, homosexuality, pornography, reverse discrimination, business ethics, sexual equality, and economic equity. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 300 or PHIL 140.

PHIL 236 Philosophy of Religion (3)

A philosophical study of some of the main problems of religious thought: the nature of religious experience, the justification of religious belief, the conflicting claims of religion and science, and the relation between religion and morality. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 236 or PHIL 236.

PHIL 245 Political and Social Philosophy (3)

A critical examination of classical political theories. Examples are drawn from the work of Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, and Marx. Contemporary theories (such as those of Hayek, Rawls, and recent Marxist thinkers) are also covered. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 245, PHIL 245, or PHIL 345.

PHIL 307 Asian Philosophy (3)

An examination of the major philosophical systems of the East and their relation to important ideas of Western thought.

PHIL 331 Philosophy of Art (3)

A study of concepts central to thought about art, including the concept of the fine arts both in its historical development and in its present problematic situation.