Philosophy and Literature

Catalog description

Looks at what defines subject matter/boundaries/methodologies/products of analytic philosophical discourse & literature (mostly novels & plays). Central question: Are there ways of treating philosophical problems in ethics, epistemology, & metaphysics that are well-suited to expression in literature than in standard analytic philosophical discourse? Discusses advantages/disadvantages of different idioms, disciplines for addressing phil problems; what lit can teach about phil problems relating to mind/morals/meaning of life. Prior to seminar students study A. J. Ayer's Language, Truth and Logic, (seminar's exemplar for analytic philosophy). Approved course for PAL Certificate.