As the summer sun rises, so do the opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons. This year, a range of compelling philosophy courses are being offered, inviting students to explore the profound questions that have shaped societies and legal systems throughout history.
From the ancient Greeks to contemporary thinkers, these courses promise to challenge your perspectives and deepen your understanding of the world. Whether you’re drawn to the intricacies of social and political philosophy or the complexities of legal theory, there’s a course tailored to ignite your curiosity.
Journey Through Social and Political Thought
The course PHIL 110: Introduction to Social and Political Philosophyled by José Jorge Mendozaoffers an asynchronous online experience that takes students on a journey through the cannon of Western social and political philosophy. Beginning with the foundational works of Plato and Aristotlethe course traverses the political theory of the Middle Ages and contrasts it with the modern social contract tradition.
Key questions explored in this course include the nature of justice and human naturethe balance between the individual and the communityand the relationship between liberty and equality. Students will also examine the role of religious versus secular justifications for political authority and evaluate the virtues and vices of secure versus open societies.
Philosophical Issues in the Law
For those intrigued by the intersection of philosophy and law, PHIL 114: Philosophical Issues in the Lawtaught by Jesus Rayadelves into the fundamental questions that underpin legal theory. This course, held from Monday to Friday, 9:40-11:50 a.m., explores three central questions in the philosophy of law.
The Nature of Law and Morality
The first question addresses the nature of the law and its connection to morality. Students will examine whether the law is inherently moral and how it should be interpreted in the context of U.S. Supreme Court opinions.
Interpreting the Law
The second question focuses on how judges ought to interpret the law, particularly in Constitutional cases. This section of the course encourages students to think critically about the principles that guide judicial decision-making.
The Ethics of Discrimination
The final question tackles the complex issue of discrimination. Students will explore when and why discrimination is wrong, challenging their intuitive understanding of this contentious topic. The course also invites students to reflect on their own decision-making processes, such as choosing which classes to take, and whether these actions constitute a form of discrimination.
These summer philosophy courses offer a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most pressing and enduring questions in social, political, and legal thought. Whether you’re a seasoned philosophy enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these courses promise to enrich your summer with thought-provoking discussions and intellectual growth.
