Cowboys, Murder and the Matrix
PHIL 2010: Introduction to Philosophy Through Film
This is an introduction to philosophy course employing films and philosophical texts as media of philosophical exploration. Topics will include: the existence of God, the nature of moral obligation, the relationship between mind and body, and the possibility of artificial intelligence.

Course Requirements

Assessment for the course will be based on the following:

Short written assignments and quizzes. (20%) Paper 1 Paper 2

<One longer paper (due Dec 3rd) (click for topics) (3-5 pages) (25%)

A midterm exam (25%) Study Questions

A final exam (25%) Study Questions

Classroom participation (5%) There is also an optional, "bonus" assignment you can find by clicking here.

Note:
Attendance in this course is not mandatory, but you are responsible for the material presented in class. I am not responsible for representing material to you that you have missed, and I will not do so. If you are absent, take responsibility for getting notes from a classmate.

Late policy:
Late work will be penalized. If you have a planned absence or a conflict with another class, make arrangements with me in advance to avoid penalty. If you have an unexpected emergency (e.g. the death of a relative or a medical problem), plan to present me with documentation of it. Unexcused late work will be penalized at the rate of 1 letter grade per week.

Texts

Topics and Calendar