Please visit the catalog archive for details about 2022-23 degrees and programs.

 
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Course Descriptions

 

View real-time listing of classes and sections offered.

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PHIL-Philosophy
PHIL 1000HH
Introduction to Philosophy
3 Credit Hours

Designed to investigate major philosophical ideas from the Pre-Socratic era to the present. Students should develop philosophical skills through supervised analysis of readings in epistemology (knowledge), metaphysics (reality), ethics (values), and social philosophy. Emphasizes the articulation, assessment, and discussion of fundamental religious, social, political issues through class discussions, lectures, media, and writing projects.

PHIL 100HHH
Introduction to Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1010 or ENGH 1005

Designed to investigate major philosophical ideas from the Pre-Socratic era to the present. Students should develop philosophical skills through supervised analysis of readings in epistemology (knowledge), metaphysics (reality), ethics (values), and social philosophy. Emphasizes the articulation, assessment, and discussion of fundamental religious, social, political issues through class discussions, lectures, media, and writing projects.

PHIL 1110 (Cross-listed with: MAT 1110)
Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): One of the following (within department time limits): MAT 1010, MAT 1015, MAT1030 or higher, or STAT 1040 or higher, with a grade of C- or higher.

Focuses on the ability to reason soundly and formulate arguments in mathematics, logic and philosophy. Covers how sound arguments and good reasoning methods allow us to effectively search for the truth regarding any mathematical or philosophical question. Covers the reasoning methods used in mathematics and the way the methods are applied outside of mathematics in areas such as language and the sciences. Describes how these methods are effective in producing mathematical knowledge and understanding as well as their epistemic shortcomings. Includes reasoning with propositional logic, sound argumentation, mathematical proof, visualization and diagrammatic reasoning, the role of rigor and intuition, and the scientific application of mathematics.

PHIL 120R
Philosophy Forum
1 Credit Hours

Introduces students to the interchange of traditional and contemporary philosophical issues in various venues. Provides enriched learning situations in which students may interact with noted guest scholars. Includes lectures, symposia, field trips, outreach projects, and activities oriented to engage students in philosophical discourse. Meets in conjunction with the Philosophy Club. Grading is on a credit/no credit basis. May be repeated for a total of four credits toward the AA/AS, BA/BS degree.

PHIL 1250HH
Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking
3 Credit Hours

Introduces fundamental elements of informal logic and applies these to critical thinking. Covers subjects and concepts such as (but not limited to) definition, argument, fallacy, deduction versus induction, validity, soundness, induction, causal reasoning, abductive reasoning, analogical reasoning, and probability.

PHIL 130R
Ethics Forum
1 Credit Hours

Introduces students to a wide variety of public policy and ethical issues. Provides enriched learning situations in which students are exposed to noted guest scholars and other lecturers. Includes attendance and participation at specified events by engaging in discussion of relevant issues. May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credits toward graduation.

PHIL 1610HH
Introduction to Western Religions
3 Credit Hours

For students majoring in humanities related disciplines and other students interested in the academic study of religion. Presents the comparative study of the history, ritual, "theology," and ethical beliefs of the major western religions including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Baha'i, and nontraditional religious belief in the western world. Explores similarities and differences between them by examining the primary sources and sacred texts along with the unique beliefs and practices of each tradition.

PHIL 1620HH
Introduction to Eastern Religions
3 Credit Hours

For students majoring in humanities-related disciplines and other students interested in the academic study of religion. Presents the comparative study of the history, ritual, "theology," and ethical beliefs of the major eastern religious traditions including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Shintoism. Explores similarities and differences between them by examining the primary sources and sacred texts along with the unique beliefs and practices of each tradition.

PHIL 2000
Formal Logic I
3 Credit Hours

Introduces the basic elements of categorical logic as well as formalized propositional logic and formalized first-order quantificational logic. Includes Venn diagrams, proofs, truth tables, tableaux and translations from natural language.

PHIL 2050IH
Ethics and Values
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ACT scores of 29+ in English and Reading taken within the last five years or completion of ENGL 1010 or ENGL 101H with a grade of C- or higher.

Challenges students to explore and clarify their values; critically read works of philosophy, literature, religion, and history toward understanding the basis of their ethical views; and read, study, research, discuss, and write about difficult ethical issues. Focuses on issues of good vs. evil, justice vs. injustice, equality vs. inequality, and the necessity of defining and examining happiness and values. Engages students in serious reflection on issues of ethics and values as they relate to the students' own lives.

PHIL 205GIH
Ethics and Values
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ACT scores of 29+ in English and Reading taken within the last five years or completion of ENGL 1010 or ENGL 101H with a grade of C- or higher.

Challenges students to explore and clarify their values; critically read works of philosophy, literature, religion, and history toward understanding the basis of their ethical views; and read, study, research, discuss, and write about difficult ethical issues. Focuses on issues of good vs. evil, justice vs. injustice, equality vs. inequality, and the necessity of defining and examining happiness and values. Engages students in serious reflection on issues of ethics and values as they relate to the students' own lives.

PHIL 205HIH
Ethics and Values
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ACT scores of 29+ in English and Reading taken within the last five years or completion of ENGL 1010 or ENGL 101H or ENGH 1005 with a grade of C- or higher.

Systematically explores the core issues in the realm of ethics and values, especially as they relate to life in the contemporary world. Focuses on good versus evil, justice versus injustice, and the necessity of ideals and equality. Emphasizes reading and writing skills at a more challenging level.

PHIL 2110HH
Ancient Greek Philosophy WE
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1010 or ENGL 101H or ENGH 1005 or PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or permission of the instructor

Provides students with an overview of the history and evolution of philosophical thought from its origins in pre-Socratic philosophers through Aristotle. Reviews the influence of pre-Socratic ideas upon the work of Plato and Aristotle and the impact of Greek philosophy on the evolution of Western philosophy, science, and culture. Requires writing-intensive assignments.

PHIL 2130HH
Medieval Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or permission of the instructor

Provides an overview of the development of philosophical thought from the Hellenistic period through Thomas Aquinas. Covers the influence of Ancient Greek philosophy and the impact of Christianity upon the evolution of Western philosophical thought. Carefully considers the conceptions of God, nature, the human being, and morality advanced during this period; along with the profound impact Medieval philosophy had on the European Enlightenment and modern philosophy.

PHIL 2150HH
Early Modern Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1010 or ENGH 1005 or PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or permission of the instructor

Provides an overview of the history and evolution of ideas in Western culture during the modern period of philosophy from Descartes through Kant. Focuses on the dialogue between rationalism and empiricism, and examines Kant's attempt to bridge the gap between these two approaches. Requires writing-intensive assignments.

PHIL 281R
Internship
1 to 6 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): Permission from departmental chair

Allows philosophy students to receive credit for service as an intern in a governmental, not for profit, or private agency apart from their regular employment. Provides practical and research development in selected areas of service related to students' academic and/or professional interests or goals. Internship must be supervised by agency representative. Must be approved by philosophy internship advisor and department chair and written contracts must be completed and signed. Repeatable for a maximum of six credit hours toward graduation. May be graded credit/no credit.

PHIL 290GHH
Marginalized Philosophies
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1010 or ENGL 101H or ENGH 1005 or PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or permission of the instructor

Explores philosophical traditions and approaches outside or at the margins of the philosophical mainstream as it appears in contemporary North America, such as Asian philosophy, African philosophy, Indigenous philosophy, comparative philosophy, queer theory, philosophies of gender and disability, Black philosophy, liberation philosophy, and feminist philosophy. Introduces students to the complexity and diversity of philosophical practice in an increasingly globalized world.

PHIL 290R
Independent Study
1 to 3 Credit Hours

Provides independent study as directed in reading and individual projects. Request must be submitted for approval by the department. Students may do independent study for one, two or three credits with a limit of three credits applying toward graduation with an AA/AS degree.

PHIL 295R
Directed Readings
1 to 3 Credit Hours

Provides an opportunity for second year students to do in-depth research within the discipline of Philosophy. Study is limited to advanced work beyond that which can be completed in existing, available classes. A proposal must be submitted and approved by the department prior to enrollment.

PHIL 3000
Formal Logic II
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 2000 and University Advanced Standing

Continues the exploration of first-order quantificational logic. Includes discussion of multiple quantification, formal syntax and semantics, proofs, truth-tables, tableaux, algebra of classes, set theory, and the metalogical properties of formal systems.

PHIL 3040 (Cross-listed with: COMM 3040)
Media Ethics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing

Covers ethical issues in media communication. Includes discussions of ethnicity, gender, nationalism, and conflict. Analyzes development of moral agency. Examines tensions between individual freedoms and social responsibilities. Addresses ethical questions in the context of current struggles within and over corporate and public media.

PHIL 3150
Philosophical Issues in Feminism
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Introduces students to various themes in feminist philosophy. Focuses on the concepts of sex and gender, including such issues as the nature, explanatory import and normative implications of biological sex differences, the sex/gender distinction, the idea of gender as a social construct, the structure and impact of gender oppression and the nature and value of the norms of femininity and masculinity.

PHIL 3160
Gender Values Knowledge and Reality
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Examines the impact of gender on specific areas of philosophy including, but not limited to, aesthetics, ethics, social and political philosophy, epistemology, metaphysics, philosophy of religion, philosophy of science, philosophy of language and the history of philosophy. Examines the meaning of gender with an emphasis on the diversity of experience across varying gender roles.

PHIL 3200
Metaphysics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Acquaints the student with competing abstract philosophical problems concerning the general nature and structure of reality. Examines the history of and problems of metaphysics including, but not limited to: personal identity, causation, causal determinism, the nature of universals, anti-realism, realism, change, substance and essence, space and time, and philosophy of mind.

PHIL 320G
Metaphysics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Acquaints the student with competing abstract philosophical problems concerning the general nature and structure of reality, with a focus on topics that pertain to social justice. Examines the history of and problems of metaphysics including, but not limited to: gender, sexual orientation, race, addiction, disability, and mental illness.

PHIL 3300
Epistemology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores diverse theories of knowledge from within the Western tradition. Includes concepts of truth and falsity, skepticism, justification, identity, and intentionality. Discusses empiricism, rationalism and twentieth-century Philosophy of Mind.

PHIL 3400
Philosophy of Science
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores fundamental issues in the philosophy of science. Includes the structure of the scientific method, scientific explanation, and the epistemological status of scientific laws and theories.

PHIL 3450
Philosophy of Childhood
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Examines philosophical theories and models of childhood, their implication on contemporary conceptions, controversial social, philosophical, legal, educational, and political issues pertaining to childhood, and the capacity of children to engage in philosophical dialogue.

PHIL 3460
The Ethics of Human/Animal Relationships
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205G or PHIL 205H or PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H) and University Advanced Standing

Introduces a comprehensive philosophical and academic investigation of the relationship between human and nonhuman animals. Develops and refines critical thinking and discursive strategies for evaluating traditional and contemporary philosophical, legal, religious, moral, and social considerations that inform human attitudes about nonhuman animals. Challenges students to analyze a range of pertinent topics, including, but not limited to: animal welfare, animal liberation, animal sentience and consciousness, animal rights, the animal ethics movement, the animal rights movement, religious attitudes, animals, animal law, and animal activism.

PHIL 3470
Pragmatism and American Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Introduces students to various philosophical themes and figures unique to classical American Philosophy and American Pragmatism. Focuses on assorted thematic topics characteristic of American Pragmatism, as well as the work of the American transcendental school and various philosophical writings from American women, such as Jane Addams, and African-American philosophers, such as Alain Locke.

PHIL 3510
Business and Professional Ethics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G) and University Advanced Standing

Develops concepts and philosophies essential to understanding ethical concerns in today's business and professions. Presents current case studies and theories about business ethics and helps students determine their own attitudes about contemporary and historical business morality. Examines a variety of approaches, solutions, and methods of critically thinking about ethics in business and professions.

PHIL 3520
Bioethics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Shows how ethical theories can help provide frameworks for moral judgment and decision-making in the wake of recent scientific, technological, and social developments which have resulted in rapid changes in the biological sciences and in health care. Topics include: codes of ethics, ethical theories, and practical applications, such as: professional-patient relationships, genetic engineering, euthanasia, managed health care, end-of-life issues, abortion, and reproductive technologies.

PHIL 3530
Environmental Ethics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G) and University Advanced Standing

Presents a comprehensive, balanced introduction to the field of environmental ethics. Examines a variety of national and international environmental issues. Challenges students to think and write critically about classic and contemporary works on ethics and the environment. Analyzes ethical, scientific, aesthetic, political, economical and religious perspectives pertaining to the environment.

PHIL 3540 (Cross-listed with: RLST 3540)
Christian Ethics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1610 and University Advanced Standing

Examines key developments and conceptions in Christian ethics through historical and conceptual methodologies. Explores the relationship between religious and secular approaches to ethics in their approach to questions of war, economics, politics, and/or other relevant issues.

PHIL 355G
Moral Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Surveys the global history of moral and ethical philosophy from ancient to contemporary figures. Focuses on the following issues and theories: the good, moral reasoning and judgment, objectivism vs. conventionalism and relativism, natural law theory, ethical egoism, hedonism, virtue ethics, deontology, consequentialism, utilitarianism, materialism, moral sentiment, roles of emotion and reason in ethical and moral deliberation and judgment, as well as race, gender, and sexuality in ethics.

PHIL 357R
Moral Reasoning Through Case Studies Ethics Bowl
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205G or PHIL 205H) and University Advanced Standing

Studies complex, contemporary ethical issues and develops an advanced understanding of principles and theories studied in other ethics and moral theory courses. Uses a case study approach to ethical inquiry and introduces students to the content, format, rules, and procedures of the National Collegiate Ethics Bowl competition. Required for those students who wish to participate in the regional and national competitions and provides a challenging opportunity for others who are interested in participating in exciting ethical deliberations and discussions. May be repeated for up to 9 credits for graduation with approval of instructor and department chair.

PHIL 3600
Philosophy of Religion
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

For students majoring in humanities related disciplines and other students interested in the academic study of religion. Teaches critical thinking methods and strategies regarding traditional philosophical issues in religious belief and practice. Explores various topics including the traditional arguments for the existence of God, religious experience, the relation between faith and reason, religious pluralism, and the traditional problem of evil.

PHIL 3610 (Cross-listed with: RLST 3610)
Introduction to Christian Theology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1610 and University Advanced Standing

Examines key developments and conceptions in Christian theology through historical and conceptual methodologies.

PHIL 3620 (Cross-listed with: RLST 3620)
Mormon Theology and the Christian Tradition
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1610 and University Advanced Standing

For students majoring in humanities-related disciplines and other students interested in the academic study of religion. Engages students in exploring the defining features of Mormon thought in relation to the broader Christian tradition. Examines traditional theological questions such as the problem of evil, the scriptural canon, the nature of God and humanity, and the role of ritual.

PHIL 364G
Foundations of Buddhist Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing

Examines ancient and classical Indian Buddhist philosophy. Engages students in philosophical thinking about Buddhist philosophical topics such as personhood, knowledge, reality, and ethics. Introduces students to Buddhist meditation practices and the methodology of cross-cultural philosophy. Develops competence in cross-cultural philosophical thinking by placing ancient Buddhist philosophical views and methodologies into dialogue with the students' own world views.

PHIL 3650 (Cross-listed with: RLST 3650)
Approaches to Religious Studies
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

For students majoring in humanities-related disciplines and other students interested in the academic study of religion. Teaches methodological approaches and critical thinking strategies in the study of religion. Explores various disciplines in their approaches to religious belief and practice. Includes the study of such thinkers as David Hume, Immanuel Kant, Friedrich Schleiermacher, Rudolf Otto, William James, Ludwig Feuerbach, Soren Kierkegaard, Max Weber, Emile Durkheim, John Hick, and Rene Girard.

PHIL 366R (Cross-listed with: RLST 366R)
Issues in Religious Studies
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

For students majoring in humanities-related disciplines and other students interested in the academic study of religion. Addresses specific topics and theoretical approaches related to religious studies. Topics may include religion and violence, religion and public discourse, religious ritual, etc. Subject matter varies by semester and is repeatable for a total of 9 hours of credit.

PHIL 367G (Cross-listed with: RLST 367G)
Engaging Religious Diversity
1 to 3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing

Explores how religious communities engage one another and examines the implications of these interactions for religious conflict, spiritual identity, and the role of religion in societal contexts. Employs the tools from diverse disciplines to study the phenomenon of religious encounter in both historical and contemporary contexts. Investigates theories of religious diversity, American religious history, interreligious leadership practices, and narrative encounters.

PHIL 3680 (Cross-listed with: RLST 3680)
Interreligious Studies Practicum
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): PHIL 367G or RLST 367G

Engages religious, spiritual, and secular diversity through experiential learning opportunities. Explores how religious and worldview diversity affects the ethical, social, civil, and personal dimensions of the human experience. Provides opportunities for students to apply the theories and principles studied in the other Interreligious Studies Certificate courses.

PHIL 3700
Social and Political Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G) and University Advanced Standing

Addresses ethics on the social level by exploring a variety of answers to the question: What is the best social structure? Covers concepts of justice, equality, liberalism, communitarianism, capitalism, democracy, feminism, multi-culturalism, and other topics.

PHIL 3710
Philosophy of Law
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Introduces topics in the philosophy of law, such as the role, nature, extent, and justification of law. Investigates challenging questions about the rule of law, civil disobedience, the relationship between law and morality, justice, equality, responsibility, and punishment.

PHIL 3750
Marxist Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Examines the political philosophy of Karl Marx and looks at Marx's legacy for 20th century and contemporary philosophy. Includes Marx's criticism of Hegel and Hegelian Idealism, Marx's philosophy as "ideology critique," Marx's "materialist" philosophy, Marx's critique of capital, and several of the following: early 20th-century Marxist political philosophy, critical theory, structuralist Marxism, phenomenological Marxism, materialist feminism, and post-Marxism.

PHIL 3800 (Cross-listed with: HUM 3800)
Aesthetics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing

Studies aesthetics as perceived by the disciplines of philosophy, psychology, sociology, anthropology, history, and others. Analyzes art forms, including the visual arts, literature, music, and theater from the perspectives of philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, Kant, Hume, Dewey, Danto, Bell, Collingwood, Thoreau, and Dickie.

PHIL 3810
Existentialism and Phenomenology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores two of the most important and influential traditions within modern and contemporary philosophy. Covers figures such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Husserl, Heidegger, Sartre, Camus, Merleau-Ponty, de Beauvoir, Gadamer, Levinas, Ricoeur, and Derrida, and issues in epistemology, metaphysics, ethics and aesthetics. The course focuses in particular on the notions of subjectivity, agency, free-will, and truth.

PHIL 3820 (Cross-listed with: HUM 3820)
Philosophy through Literature
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides students with an interdisciplinary approach to the study of philosophy through literature. Gives students the opportunity to read some of the most engaging thinkers and how they offer differing perspectives through a variety of texts. Breaks down some of the strict divisions placed between philosophical and literary texts.

PHIL 3830
Deconstruction and Hermeneutics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 2050H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or Instructor Approval) and University Advanced Standing

Studies the interpretive methods of deconstruction and hermeneutics, two important traditions to emerge in late 20th century philosophy. Analyzes various works from the history of philosophy through the frameworks of deconstruction and hermeneutics. Tracks the difference between knowledge and understanding, particularly through the writings of Jacques Derrida and Hans-Georg Gadamer. Includes the study of other relevant traditions such as post-structuralism, French feminism, and literary criticism.

PHIL 384R
Topics in Comparative Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 and University Advanced Standing.

Provides students the opportunity to intensively study topics, figures, and aspects of non-Western and comparative philosophy beyond the scope of introductory classes (e.g., PHIL 1620 and 290G). Examines either a non-Western tradition/topic/text (e.g., the 'Analects' of Confucius, the 'Bhagavad Gita', Japanese aesthetics, Mayan metaphysics) or a major issue in philosophy approached comparatively (e.g., Chinese and Greek philosophies of science). Emphasizes comparative methodology itself, such as how to avoid the twin dangers of over-generalized stereotype and cherry-picked factoids when dealing with other cultures. Focuses on the close study of primary texts, including considerations of translation and cultural sensitivity. Encourages strong critical thinking, writing, and rhetorical skills, as well as growth into more worldly and informed philosophy majors. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits toward graduation.

PHIL 386R
Topics in Ancient Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides students the opportunity to study aspects of ancient Greek philosophy intensively. Focuses on an aspect of the thought of a particular philosopher, such as Plato or Aristotle, or on a particular theme in Ancient philosophy, such as Ethics or Metaphysics. Emphasizes close study of primary texts. Develops strong critical thinking, writing and rhetorical skills. May be repeated up to 3 times for a total of 9 credits.

PHIL 388R
Topics in Medieval and Early Modern Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides students the opportunity to study aspects of medieval and early modern philosophy intensively. Focuses on the thought of a particular philosopher or set of philosophers or a particular theme in medieval and early modern philosophy. Emphasizes close study of primary texts. Develops critical thinking, writing, and comprehension skills. May be repeated up to 3 times for a total of 9 credits.

PHIL 400R
Great Philosophers
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides an in-depth look at a great figure in Philosophy across the topics of metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, social and political philosophy, aesthetics, and other themes. Addresses the contribution of the thinker to the history of Philosophy. Repeatable up to 12 credit hours with different topics.

PHIL 4120
Philosophy of Education
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (ENGL 1010 or ENGH 1005 or PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Examines history, issues, and philosophical theories of education with attention to associated metaphysical, epistemological, ethical, political, and ideological assumptions.

PHIL 4130
Nineteenth Century European Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Introduces students to the changes in 19th century European philosophy regarding the nature of truth, knowledge, human freedom, and nature. Focuses on the attempts of German Idealism to formulate a systematic science of reality. Discusses the possibilities and problems with conceiving truth as both complete and absolutely knowable. Analyzes the philosophies of nature, art, human freedom, society, and ethics.

PHIL 4140
History of Analytic Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores the history of Analytic Philosophy from the late 19th century to the present. Includes the study of such figures as Bertrand Russell, B. Bolzano, Gottlob Frege, Ludwig Wittgenstein, Rudolph Carnap, G.E. Moore, J.L. Austin, Gilbert Ryle, W.V.O. Quine, and Fredrich Waismann. Studies methods of movements such as Logical Empiricism, and Ordinary Language Philosophy. Explores views such as Logicism, Logical Atomism, Holism, Verificationism, Logical Behaviorism, Psychologism, Nominalism, and Realism.

PHIL 4150
History of Continental Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores continental European philosophy. Reviews Kant's critical philosophy. Examines Hegel's attempt to go beyond the limitations of critical philosophy by creating a systematic, dialectical philosophy. Examines the following traditions as responses to Hegel: Western Marxism, Existentialism, Phenomenology, Structuralism, Post-Structuralism and Deconstruction, Post-Modernism, Psychoanalysis, and Feminism.

PHIL 416G
History of Chinese Philosophy
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 2050 and University Advanced Standing

Explores the philosophies of China. Interprets major Chinese philosophical texts and figures, tracing the development of Chinese philosophy’s key themes and questions across the centuries. Examines the “classical era” of Chinese thought, the Warring States Period, in which the foundations of all subsequent tradition emerged: Confucianism, Daoism, Mohism, Legalism; the introduction of Buddhism to China throughout the medieval period, culminating in the Neo-Confucian movements of the late imperial era; and modern Chinese political theory.

PHIL 4200
Symbolic Logic
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 3000 and University Advanced Standing

Discusses the philosophical motivation for the formalization of logic. Introduces the metatheory for propositional and quantificational logic. Includes proofs of the soundness and completeness of quantificational logic. Discusses the philosophical issues surrounding the results proved. May also include some discussion of important results in computability.

PHIL 4300 (Cross-listed with: HUM 4300)
Environmental Aesthetics
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 000, PHIL 100H, PHIL 2050, PHIL 205H, PHIL 205G, ENST 3000, HUM 1010, HUM 101H, HUM 101G, or HUM 3500) and University Advanced Standing

Introduces students to emerging themes in environmental aesthetics. Evaluates concepts and attitudes toward nature including, but not limited to, the concept of beauty in natural and human-made environments from a cross-cultural perspective. Studies environmental formalism, cognitivism and non-cognitivism, as well as divergent spiritual, ecological, religious, and moral approaches to the appreciation of nature.

PHIL 430R
Topics in Epistemology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides an opportunity for students to conduct an in-depth study of specific topics in epistemology. Topics may include the foundations of knowledge; the nature of justification; the problem of skepticism, and the nature of scientific, religious, and/or moral knowledge. Emphasizes the rigorous analysis of arguments and offers the opportunity for students to develop their own original critical analysis and argument. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits toward graduation.

PHIL 4460
Philosophy of Psychology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050, PHIL 205G, PHIL 205H, PSY 1010, or PSY 101H) and University Advanced Standing

Offers an interdisciplinary exploration of questions that arise when psychologists explore cognition and behavior concerning philosophical issues and when philosophers explore questions that rely on empirical claims about cognition and behavior. Surveys topics such as situationism and virtue ethics, moral intuitions, well-being, emotions, moods, positive illusions and free will, automaticity, confabulation, mental illness and psychopathy.

PHIL 4461 (Cross-listed with: PSY 4461)
Moral Psychology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205G or PHIL 205H or PSY 1010 or PSY 101H) and University Advanced Standing

Analyzes questions about how people engage in moral thinking and in moral behavior from the perspectives of the philosophy of mind, ethics and psychology. Explores topics such as virtue and character, reason and passion, altruism and egoism, agency and responsibility, and moral intuitions.

PHIL 4470
Philosophy of Mind
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores central questions concerning the nature of the mind. Includes such topics as personal identity, the mind-body problem, other minds, mental causation, and externalism.

PHIL 4480
Philosophy of Language
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Explores the central issues in the philosophy of language. Includes the study of such issues as truth, meaning, reference and descriptions, names and demonstratives, speech acts, metaphor and private language. Includes the study of such philosophers as W.V.O. Quine, A Tarski, D. Davidson, J. Searle, J. Derrida, C. Levi-Strauss, F. Saussure, L. Wittgenstein, K. Donnellan, S. Kripke, D. Kaplan, H.P. Grice, B. Russell, and P.F. Strawson.

PHIL 450R
Interdisciplinary Senior Ethics Seminar
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): Instructor approval and University Advanced Standing

For integrated studies majors and other interested students. Addresses ethical issues dealing with discipline specific subject matter, i.e., nursing, behavioral, physical, social sciences, etc. Subject matter will vary each semester. Taught by Philosophy faculty in cooperation with faculty of appropriate departments. Repeatable three times for credit with different subjects. See Philosophy Department office for specific topics.

PHIL 451R
Ethical Theory Seminar
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Offers detailed investigation of selected ethical theories central to the Western philosophical tradition. Repeatable up to 12 credit hours with different topics.

PHIL 452G
Topics in Value Theory
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides an opportunity for students to conduct an in-depth study of specific topics in value theory. Considers theoretical questions about the nature of value, meaning, and purpose in human life. Focuses on theoretical inquiries into the value of particular human activities, especially as they pertain to civic engagement. Considers topics including, but not limited to, micro aggressions, implicit bias, accessibility, inclusivity, and intersectionality. Emphasizes the rigorous analysis of arguments and offers not only the opportunity for students to develop their own original critical analysis and argument but also the opportunity for students to apply their learning outside the classroom. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits toward graduation.

PHIL 452R
Topics in Value Theory
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Provides an opportunity for students to conduct an in-depth study of specific topics in value theory. Considers theoretical questions about the nature of value, meaning, and purpose in human life. Includes the objectivity or subjectivity of value; the sources of value in human life; the nature and importance of art; the value of relationships, community, humor, and/or play; and related theoretical inquiries into the value of particular human activities. Emphasizes the rigorous analysis of arguments and offers the opportunity for students to develop their own original critical analysis and argument. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits toward graduation.

PHIL 480R
Philosophy Capstone Prep
1 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): PHIL 1250 or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150, University Advanced Standing

Prepares students to successfully complete a Philosophy Research Capstone thesis. Provides resources for formulating a thesis, identifying faculty adviser(s), and completing a one-page thesis proposal and an annotated bibliography of works to be consulted for the thesis project. May be repeated for a maximum of 2 credits toward graduation.

PHIL 481R
Internship
1 to 6 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): Departmental chair approval and University Advanced Standing

Allows philosophy students to receive credit for service as an intern in a governmental, not for profit, or private agency apart from their regular employment. Provides practical and research development in selected areas of service related to students' academic and/or professional interests or goals. Internship must be supervised by agency representative. Must be approved by philosophy internship advisor and department chair and written contracts must be completed and signed. Repeatable for a maximum of 6 credit hours toward graduation. May be graded credit/no credit.

PHIL 490R
Independent Study
1 to 3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): Departmental Approval and University Advanced Standing

Provides independent study as directed in reading and individual projects. May be repeated for up to 6 total credits toward graduation.

PHIL 4910
Philosophy Research Capstone WE
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1250 or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150), PHIL 480R, Senior Standing, and University Advanced Standing

To be taken during the student's last semester in the baccalaureate program. Includes writing a senior thesis, which points to post-baccalaureate career path or graduate school goals. Covers advanced Philosophy research and writing instruction. Encourages students to explore the ethical dimensions of their desired professional or graduate research interests. Involves the creation of a professional portfolio helpful in applying to graduate school or seeking employment.

PHIL 492R
Advanced Topics in Philosophy
1 to 3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): (PHIL 1000 or PHIL 100H or PHIL 2050 or PHIL 205H or PHIL 205G or PHIL 2110 or PHIL 2150 or instructor approval) and University Advanced Standing

Examines advanced topics philosophy. Examples include ancient theories of political constitution, continental rationalism, empiricism, personal identity, free will, theories of truth and modal logic. May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credits toward graduation.