This course is an introduction to philosophical questions as treated by thinkers from a worldwide range of philosophical traditions. The course will explore issues drawn from at least three traditional areas of philosophical investigation. These areas of philosophy include the following: logic (reasoning and argumentation), ethics (moral theory and its applications), metaphysics (the study of the basic properties of reality), epistemology (the theory of knowledge), philosophy of religion (arguments for the existence of God, etc.) aesthetics (the theory of beauty and its manifestation in art and nature) and political philosophy (the study of principles of governing human society). In each case, philosophical problems will be discussed through the an encounter with both Western and Non-Western thinkers and schools of thought. NOTE: Prerequisites: ENG 100 with grade of “C” or better.

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
Identify the basic elements of sound reasoning and make a cogent argument for philosophical position.
Recognize and explain the basic issues involved with significant philosophical problems as presented in the course.
Identify and demonstrate an understanding of the major philosophical ideas or theories that address the philosophical problems presented in the course.
Critically appraise the arguments of philosophers by offering an account of their strengths and/or weaknesses.
Compare and contrast the works of two philosophers from different world traditions on a specific philosophical topic.

College Academic Learning Goal Designation: Critical Reasoning (CR), Global Understanding (GU)

Prerequisites: ENG 100.

3 Credits3 Weekly Lecture Hours

This course is intended for the beginning student in philosophy. In this course students, after acquiring basic argumentative skills and some background in moral theory, will examine several different contemporary moral problems. The moral problems discussed may include: the legalization of narcotic drugs, abortion, affirmative action, euthanasia, capital punishment, the ethical treatment of animals, etc. The purpose of the class is to discuss the above issues from a reasoned, philosophical perspective. NOTE: Prerequisites: ENG 100 with grade of “C” or better.

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
Identify the basic elements of sound reasoning and make a cogent argument for a position.
Present the major philosophical problems discussed in class.
Analyze the major philosophical problems discussed in class.
Present the ethical theories discussed in class.
Explain the ethical theories discussed in class.
Identify the philosophers discussed in class and present their views.
Critique the views of the philosophers discussed in class.
Formulate and rationally defend an ethical position on a contemporary moral problem.
Apply the philosophical method of argumentation to issues in daily life.

Prerequisites: ENG 100.

3 Credits3 Weekly Lecture Hours