PHIL 100: Introduction to Philosophy

PHIL 100-007: Introduction to Philosophy
(Fall 2017)

10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW

Lecture Hall 3

Section Information for Fall 2017

This course examines philosophical questions surrounding the modern philosophical subject, self or ego. A close reading of Descartes’ Meditations establishes the foundation for thinking about the modern subject. Readings from Locke explore the role of memory and consciousness in thinking the self. We look at Freud in order to problematize the traditional readings of the self and consciousness while introducing new ways to think about the self. Not only does Freud introduce us to the body as a crucial element in understanding the self, his work also introduces us to questions of sexuality and gender that are absent from the prior accounts. Sartre’s existential account of the subject emphasizes the role of (internal) decision in the formation of the self, while Foucault suggests that the self is constructed by forces external to the individual. And finally Butler examines the issue of gender and raises the possibility of the self as performance through and through. Through close readings of these texts and work with these thinkers we will develop an understanding of the issues involved in questions of the self. In addition, as an introduction to philosophy, we will explore different ways of thinking and styles of philosophy that extend beyond this particular question.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Introduction to the nature of philosophical reasoning and some of the main problems of philosophy. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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