Philosophy

Classes

PHL 101 : Introduction to Philosophy

An introductory study of some of the most important problems of philosophy, including knowledge and reality, ethics, religious belief, freedom and determinism. Some consideration is given to the development of the Western philosophical tradition from Plato to twentieth century existentialism. Three lecture hours per week. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Ethical Dimensions, Human Expression and Multicultural and Social Perspectives.

Credits

3
1. Recognize theories of knowledge and formulate conclusions. 2. Inquire and explore the existence of God. 3. Recognize and identify alternate theories of reality. 4. Review and discuss moral ideals and ethical behavior. 5. Explore and question philosophies of community relationships. 6. Employ philosophical methods such as logic, inquiry, questioning and critical analysis.

PHL 111 : Introduction to Logic

This course is designed to assist the student in learning the fundamental principles for distinguishing sound arguments from fallacious ones. Arguments are studied as abstract patterns of reasoning and as a particular use of ordinary language. The course is intended not only for the serious philosophy student, but also for students who wish to develop critical thinking skills needed to formulate sound arguments of their own and to evaluate the arguments of others. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Human Expression.

Credits

3
1. Identify fundamental principles of sound reasoning, critical thinking and common logical fallacies. 2. Analyze various arguments found in media, politics, and everydaydiscourse to distinguish valid reasoning from flawed logic. 3. Apply principles of argumentation to construct clear, valid and logical arguments. 4. Evaluate the strength and validity of arguments presented by others. 5. Communicate arguments effectively using appropriate language and structure.

PHL 152 : Ethics: Making Ethical Decisions in a Modern World

This course presents the various systems which philosophers in the Western World have devised for making ethical decisions. The course examines modern ethical problems, e.g. abortion, divorce, euthanasia, extramarital sex, war, and capital punishment in the light of these systems. It encourages the student to form reasoned solutions to the ethical problems of our day. Three class hours a week. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Ethical Dimensions, Human Expression and Multicultural and Social Perspectives.

Credits

3
1. Investigate various philosophical concepts to examine ethical problems. 2. Analyze different philosophical perspectives to ethics from diverse backgrounds, identities, cultures and perspectives. 3. Construct philosophical concepts to offer explanations for various venues of ethical conduct. 4. Illustrate a reflective philosophical ability to question life and issues of ethics.