Degree Requirements

Are there good reasons for acting morally? Are consequences relevant to the morality of actions, or only our intentions? What is the nature of moral virtue? What is a good life? This course provides systematic analysis of such questions, drawing from important works in the history of moral philosophy and engaging with pressing contemporary ethical issues.

Investigates some of the great themes of European philosophy and the problem of metaphysics as the intellectual inquiry which is supposed to clarify the nature of reality.

Logic is the formal study of arguments and inference. Particular attention is given to symbolic representations of systems of rationality and to what makes an argument valid or invalid.

A topical seminar drawing upon skills and content developed in the Philosophy major. The student will write and defend a major research project. For PH majors only.

The conditions that make knowledge possible and the criteria of truth and falsity. Selected representative historical thinkers.

Selected topics in the philosophy of science are explored such as the distinction between science and pseudoscience; the nature of confirmation, refutation, and explanation; realism and antirealism about scientific theories; and the possibility of conflict between science, religion, and the law.
Prerequisite: Take a 3 credit Philosophy course

Investigates the philosophical foundations of political authority and social organization. Concepts such as freedom, equality, justice, and power are explored through engagement with primary texts.

Explores theories of social, political, and economic justice from the ancient to the modern and contemporary periods.
Prerequisite: TAKE A 3 CREDIT PHILOSOPHY COURSE

Investigates the many philosophical issues surrounding race and racial identity. Some issues are metaphysical, such as what races are and whether race is a "real" feature of persons or not. Other issues are moral and political issues, such as what racism is, how it shapes our political landscape, and how societies can combat it.
Prerequisite: TAKE A PH COURSE;

Philosophical foundations of Marx's thought in Aristotle, Hegel, Feuerbach, and other predecessors. Analysis of Marx's conceptions of alienation, exploitation, historical materialism, and his critique of liberal political thought. Various philosophical responses to Marxism and evaluation of its applicability to contemporary capitalist societies.
Prerequisite: Take a 3 credit Philosophy course

The philosophical study of the nature of law, the legal system's relationship to natural law, and theories of jurisprudence.
Prerequisite: TAKE A PH COURSE