Social and Political Philosphy is a study of the major theories of social justice and their implications for selected areas of public policy. Attention will be given to theories of natural law, social contract, and a variety of philosophical problems. 2143 American Philosophic Thought is a study of the major philosophical movements which have originated within the United States. Special emphasis is placed upon the development of pragmatism. A chronological survey of ancient and medieval philosophy of the West from Thales to Aquinas.
Emphasis is placed upon the development of metaphysics, epistemology, and logic.
Particular attention is paid to the development of rationalism and empiricism. 3103 Ethical Theory will enable students to undertake a critical examination of both traditional and current ethical theories. The course will provide students with a background in the history of ethics, familiarity with some current controversies in ethics, and the opportunity to engage in the critical evaluation of ethical theories. 3 hours humanities or philosophy, or junior standing. The course will inquire into the nature of the aesthetic experience, theories of taste, the ontic status of aesthetic value, and it will investigate the legitimacy of various criteria used in criticism of the arts.