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COURSES OF STUDY
PL 308 Topics in Metaphysics and Epistemology (1)
An examination of questions in contemporary metaphysics and
epistemology concerning the nature of our knowledge of the world
and different conceptions of reality which come into play in our
idea of what there is in the world. The focus of the course may vary
with different questions being highlighted: for example, questions
concerning the objectivity of moral values, the dominance of science
in our understanding of reality, the identity of consciousness and
neuro‑physiological processes, the relation of knowledge to experience
and reason, and the capacity of truth to transcend our capacity to know
it. With the permission of the philosophy faculty, students may enroll
more than once for credit, provided that the focus of the course is
different. Prerequisite: one previous course in PL (except PL 241).
PL 350 Symbolic Logic (1)
Fundamentals of symbolic logic, including both sentential and
quantificational logic. Prerequisite: PL 241.
PL 360 Postmodernism and Philosophy (1)
An examination of some of the ways postmodern perspectives have
impacted recent philosophy with respect to questions about the nature
of language, reason, community and justice. A major contemporary
alternative to postmodernism is also assessed in order to establish
a critical dialogue concerning the strengths and weaknesses of our
“
postmodern condition.” Prerequisite: one previous course in PL
(
except PL 241).
PL 361 Topics in Philosophy of Religion (1)
An examination of some issues in the philosophy of religion primarily
in the Western tradition. Potential topics include the problem of evil,
the nature of God, proofs for God’s existence, the nature of faith,
and non‑traditional concepts of God (e.g., process theology, feminist
theology). With the permission of the philosophy faculty, students may
enroll more than once for credit, provided that the focus of the course
is different. Prerequisite: one previous course in PL (except PL 241).
PL 470 Senior Seminar in Philosophy (1)
A research seminar that examines a significant body of philosophical
literature and utilizes a student’s accumulated knowledge and skills
in the discipline. A substantial paper is required. All students enrolled
in the course will meet in a seminar to discuss the progress of their
projects. Prerequisites: at least two 300-level PL courses (one of which
must be designated a Writing Reinforcement class in philosophy), and
at least three years of college coursework.
