Various thinkers regard comprehending ones own death as both impossible and worth trying, as a means to making sense of ones life. This class combines intellectual inquiry and personal exploration into assessing death, aging, and living meaningfully. The personal dimension requires a willingness to write and speak openly about experiences and topics liable to elicit feelings. The course is intended to address both intellectual and personal interests of students in gerontology, philosophy, human services and similar fields, and may be of general interest.
Regular attendance is required.
Final grades may be reduced by one grade for every three excused absences or six un-excused absences. Grading will take into consideration the instructor's subjective impressions of the student as an interested and participating member of the class. There are no extra credit assignments. Papers are to be between 2000 and 3000 words and are to demonstrate a synthesis of ideas presented by the instructor, ones classmates, one's own ideas or perspective, and assigned readings. Grades are based on the quality of writing in achieving these objectives.