Course Descriptions:

 Introduction to Philosophy [PHIL 1301]: An introduction to traditional western philosophic problems and methods of philosophic inquiry by means of an historical examination of the more prominent philosophers in the western tradition. Ancient, medieval, and modern views are examined with the intent of exposing the student to specific considerations involving different theories on the concept of reality, human beings, nature, existence and God; knowledge and how it is acquired; values and social issues. 3 credit hours.

Comparative Religion [PHIL 1304]: This course offers an introduction to the five major living religious traditions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Special emphasis will be placed on the history of each tradition as well as its contemporary expression. We will focus on such topics as the nature of God, religious expression, immortality, and human freedom. 3 credit hours.

Introduction to Logic [PHIL 2303] : An introduction to symbolic and informal logic. Emphasis on logical argument, fallacies, inductive and deductive proof, and correct reasoning. 3 credit hours.

Introduction to Ethics [PHIL 2306]: An introduction to traditional theories and problems in the discussion of ethics or moral philosophy. By utilizing seminal works from the history of western philosophical thought, we will discuss in detail the meaningfulness of ethical discourse, and questions that deal with what makes an action right or wrong, and/or good or evil. In the midst of this, we will examine contemporary issues in light of these historical views in order to determine the relevance of these said views. 3 credit hours.

Introduction to Social and Political Philosophy [PHIL 2307]: This course develops relationships of philosophical ideas to the community or State. Primary focus will center on the concepts of might (force), power, and authority as these reflect theories concerning the basic nature of the State. Further emphasis will be on concepts of natural rights, justice, education, freedom and responsibility as these concepts are outgrowths of the basic nature of the formation of the State vis-à-vis those basic concepts of the nature of the State listed above. 3 credit hours.

Philosophy of Religion [PHIL 2321].  A critical investigation of important philosophical concerns with respect to religious ideas of faith, the existence and nature of God, the problem of evil, ideas of the sacred and profane, and others.

Prerequisites:  Students must be able to demonstrate college-level reading ability (and writing at the college level is also strongly urged) before they can register for this class.  This may be done in several ways; e.g., taking and passing with a minimum standard score the TSI (Texas Success Initiative) exam, the Compass Test, by passing Developmental Reading III (READ 0310), or otherwise demonstrating such reading skills.  If you are enrolled in Developmental Writing, it is strongly recommended you reconsider taking this course.  Likewise, it is recommended that you have taken and passed or are concurrently enrolled in English 1301 or 1302.  If you have any questions, please speak with your instructor.

Syllabus 1301  2303   Course Prerequisites