The Search for Wisdom

Catalog description

This course is an introduction to philosophical thought as a method of seeking wisdom. Students learn the fundamental concepts and skills needed to understand and assess claims and theories. They apply these concepts and skills as they deal with important philosophical issues, for example, regarding the rationality of belief in God, the nature of truth and knowledge, the foundations of moral values, and happiness and the good life. Students also practice developing the intellectual virtues needed to deal effectively with such issues. To accomplish these goals, students practice articulating, assessing, and defending, both verbally and in writing, their own and others' best-reasoned judgments regarding crucial philosophical issues. To inform their thinking, they read and analyze important primary philosophical texts that deal with the issue at hand. This course involves close reading of 8-12 pages of primary philosophical texts for most class meetings and 12-15 pages of polished, well-reasoned argumentative writing over the course of the semester. Instructors may also include quizzes, exams, and other means of helping students to assess their mastery of course readings, concepts, skills, and objectives.