The purpose of the course "Philosophy in Latin America" is to introduce students to the depth and diversity of philosophy in Latin America. The course examines how philosophy in Latin America develops in response to the larger socio-political context, re-thinking European ideas to make sense of the unique realities of Latin America.

The purpose of this class is to introduce students to the field of aesthetics, which is a branch of philosophy that deals with questions concerning the nature of art. We will explore such questions as: What is beauty and why are human beings interested in it What is the nature/purpose of art Is there an exemplary type of aesthetic experience What distinguishes a work of art from other cultural products, such as furniture or velvet Elvis paintings Can a works aesthetic value remain independent of its moral and political message.

This course explores the relationship between philosophy and film by examining the ways that philosophy helps us understand film as a unique artistic medium, as well as how film helps us grasp complicated philosophical problems with newfound clarity. The first few weeks of the course use philosophy to analyze the deeper aesthetic foundations and socio-political implications of film as an artistic medium that represents reality.

Capstone research and writing in a collective humanities setting. Students will enroll for one credit in the first semester and two credits in the second semester.

Courses on topics of interest to philosophy students offered on the basis of need, interest, or timeliness. Prerequisites as determined by the instructor. Restricted to students with junior standing or higher. May be repeated for credit. For specific section description, click to the Section Details in VitNet.

Independent reading and/or research under the guidance of a philosophy faculty member. Refer to the academic policy section for independent study policy. Independent study contract is required. May be repeated for credit.

A community service-based experience arranged interdepartmentally which focuses on the actual application of ethical frameworks in a job-related setting. Consent of instructor required. G3, G9

This course examines the major themes and divisions in the development of philosophy from the late 19th century to the present. In exploring different positions on problems like the nature of language, the mind, and concerns over technology, the class shows students how many of the defining philosophical issues of the 20th century continue to influence, both directly and indirectly, how we understand and shape the world. PMI

This course will examine the concept of law as a directive human enterprise from a historical and philosophical perspective, focusing on the American legal tradition. Natural Law and Legal Positivistic approaches to law will be discussed. Philosophical questions to be addressed may include views on the propriety and impropriety of judges interpreting laws in terms of social values, the intent of legislators, particular moral codes, and/or the intentions of Constitutional authors.

The goal of the course Philosophy of Science is to introduce students to many of the underlying assumptions, conceptual foundations, and implications of science as a distinctive approach to understanding the world. There is much contemporary debate on the different methodologies and types of reasoning used in science, and the extent to which science provides objective knowledge of the real world.