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An investigation into the nature of emotions and their relationship to rationality and moral responsibility. We first examine some traditional philosophical accounts that analyze emotions in terms of specific sensations. We then examine a Freudian account of emotion, which holds that one can have an unconsciuous emotion. Existential theories of emotion are then considered, followed by an examination of contemporary cognitive theories.

A study of central themes in existential philosophy and literature.

A study of film as an aesthetic medium. Explores the social, technological, historical and artistic influences on the development of cinema. Also examines how theories of film (i.e., realism, formalism, expressionism and semiology) affect the aesthetic construction and critical reception of films.

What is democracy? How is it tied to justice? Is liberal democracy the only legitimate form of democracy? Can we make democracy better? How should democracy be shaped by culture and context? This course focuses on contemporary philosophical debates about democracy, but readings also include texts in political theory and political philosophy. Specific topics may include democratic representation; minimalism/realism about democracy; liberal democracy; classical pluralism; social choice theory; difference democracy and issues of gender, race, and class; deliberative democracy; green/environmental democracy; globalization and cross-cultural issues as they relate to democracy.

This course will introduce students to the academic field of the Philosophy of Law.  Students will be exposed to, and develop their capacity to think critically about, historically influential philosophical answers to the following questions: “What is the nature of the law, and what makes something a valid or legitimate law? Should the law reflect morality, or does it somehow constitute or create morality?” This course will also examine the philosophy of constitutional law, contract law, criminal law, rights to property, free speech, free practice of religion, privacy, pornography, abortion, gay marriage, affirmative action, and punishment. It is recommended that students have had at least one course in Philosophy, Criminology, or Government & World Affairs, but this course may be taken as a first course in Philosophy by ambitious students who are interested in the subject matter.

An in-depth survey of classical Chinese philosophy, with an emphasis on the cross-cultural comparison of philosophical traditions, methods, and commitments. This course will focus on classical Confucianism and Daoism (Taoism), but will also cover topics such as Mohism, the legalist philosophy of Hanfeizi, and Yin/Yang metaphysics. It is recommended that students have had at least one course in philosophy, religion, or Asian studies (including Asian languages), but this course may be taken as a first course in philosophy or Asian studies by ambitious students who are interested in the subject matter.

An exploration of special topics in Asian or Indian philosophy, with an emphasis on the cross-cultural comparison of philosophical traditions, methods and commitments. It is recommended that students have had at least one course in philosophy, religion, or Asian studies (including Asian languages), but this course may be taken as a first course in philosophy or Asian studies by ambitious students who are interested in the subject matter. May be repeated if content varies.

An exploration of one or more special topics in philosophy. It is recommended that students have had at least one philosophy course, but this course may be taken as a first philosophy course by ambitious students who are interested in the subject matter. May be repeated if content varies. Students will write philosophical research papers that undergo formal review and revision, and they will do other kinds of writing while engaging with philosophical issues.