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PHIL 184

On-Campus Extended Studies Course

An on-campus course offered during the Winter or May term. May be offered for .5 course credits or as a co-curricular (0 credit). Counts toward satisfying the Extended Studies requirement.

Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
Variable

Winter Term information

Richard Cameron

184A: Speak for The Trees!

Course Time: 9:00am-noon MTRF
Fees: None
Prerequisites: None

Dr. Seuss's 'The Lorax' is a classic of children's literature, but is so much more. A parable on the economy and ecology, on individualism and collective action problems, on stereotypes and rhetorical tropes, and on the serious role of popular media in socialization. Throughout the course we'll ask philosophical questions on these topics through the lens offered by 'The Lorax,' even as we learn about the history of forestry and logging in Indiana and head for some of those elusive things, local 'old growth' forests.


Jeremy Anderson

184B: Movies and the Meaning of Life

Course Time: 9:30am - 12:30pm MTWRF
Fees: None
Prerequisites: None

What is real? What is our place in the world? Who am I? What's important in life? Am I free or are my choices foreordained? And how can we learn more about these issues by watching movies? This co-curricular course will explore some of the deep, heavy questions of philosophy through the (relatively) light, convenient medium of films such as The Truman Show, Do the Right Thing, Ex Machina, and others of your choice. Readings will point us to the issues to watch for in each film, which we will discuss after viewing. Assignments will include readings, discussions, viewings, and written reactions to them. Students will also form small groups, and each group will lead discussion of a given film. Students will be evaluated on quality of written work, participation in discussions, and quality of discussion leading for their group's film.