Hermeneutical theory is traced through its incarnations in ancient, medieval and modern philosophy to its present central position in continental thought where everything human beings understand and do is seen as a function of interpretation. Students work on problems in Biblical interpretation and the analysis of canonical texts, with particular attention to the questions of narration and audience. Introduction to systems of rhetorical criticism and their application to various genres of public discourse. Students collaborate in writing, editing, producing, and judging a journal of critical essays. Advanced training in the design and presentation of persuasive speeches for diverse civic audiences.
Students conduct a public forum on a issue of current interest for the university community.
Courses in selected areas of interest that are not offered periodically. Typically offered in the fall of election years. A discussion of how American values of equality and individual liberty are realized in the ordinary, everyday activities of American life and how they can have paradoxical consequences. This course is part of a learning community with a section of Political Science 1. Critical analysis of individual trials features how they present competing visions of community, struggle to structure understandings, and influence both public and private life.