PHIL 101 Introduction to Philosophy

A writing-intensive seminar that introduces students to central philosophical ideas and debates. In recent years, we have offered Black Mirror and Philosophy. In this course, students use the Netflix series Black Mirror to investigate philosophical questions such as: Do we have free will? Do some circumstances call for the violation of standard moral principles for the sake of the greater good? What are the appropriate limits of privacy in the digital age? How have new technologies reoriented our personal relationships, and what are the implications for social and political life? Throughout the course, students reflect on the ongoing relevance of philosophy for contemporary life. They also learn key argumentation and philosophical writing skills. *This course is open to first-year and sophomore students only. Typically offered every fall.