Topics include truth, skepticism, objectivity and relativism. A philosophical examination of problems concerning the nature of mind such as the relation between mind and body, self knowledge, free will, and personal identity. A study of philosophical issues raised by law such as the relation of law to morality, obligation to obey the law, paternalism, censorship and free speech. A study of classic and contemporary treatments of justice, authority, the relations between individual and community, the meaning of freedom and equality, power and violence, and race and gender. A philosophical study of topics such as crime, responsibility, justice and punishment.
Special attention is paid to current practices in the criminal justice system.
Course may be repeated as topics vary. An intensive study of the texts and arguments of Presocratic philosophers, Plato, Aristotle, or Hellenistic philosophers. Course may be repeated as topics vary. An intensive study of one or more Continental or British philosophers from the sixteenth through eighteenth centuries. Course may be repeated as topics vary.