PHIL 120 - World Philosophy

Number of Credits: 3
World Philosophy is a critical survey of some of the significant philosophical traditions outside the standard canon in Western philosophy. Students will explore Non-Western philosophical traditions (such as those originating in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and among Native Americans) and traditions that stand as alternatives to the standard Western canon (such as select African-American, feminist, gay/lesbian, post-modern, and poststructuralist philosophical approaches). Major themes in Western philosophy will be identified and compared to non-Western and alternative traditions in order to develop an awareness of different philosophical perspectives and to invite students into a critical exploration of their own worldviews and of contemporary global issues (Fall & Spring Only) Three hours lecture each week. Three Credits. Three billable hours.

Diversity: Meets Diversity Requirement.
GENERAL EDUCATION Category: Arts and Humanities

Pre-requisite(s): eligibility for ENGL 101.
Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Describe key concepts, tenets, arguments, and implications of philosophical theories from Western, non-Western, and alternative philosophical traditions. (GE1, GE3, PG1, PG3, PG4)
Discuss topical issues and competing philosophical perspectives in ways that are co-operative, respectful, clear, and compelling. (GE1, GE3, GE7, GE8, PG1, PG2, PG3, PG4)
Interpret philosophical and topical issues in ways that acknowledge their inherent complexity and nuance. (GE1, GE3, GE6, GE7, GE8, PG1, PG2, PG3, PG4)
Communicate in writing about philosophical and topical issues in ways that adhere to accepted academic conventions. (GE1, GE3, GE4, GE5, PG1, PG4)
Recognize connections between assigned reading material and contemporary, real-world issues. (GE3, GE6, GE7, GE8, PG2, PG3. PG5)
Critically evaluate philosophical perspectives and arguments arising from different traditions with fairness, charity, and rigor. (GE1, GE3, GE7, GE8, PG1, PG2, PG3, PG4)
Draw meaningful comparisons between philosophical perspectives and arguments arising from different traditions. (GE3, GE6, GE8, PG2, PG3, PG4)
Reflect on their own philosophical beliefs and practices in a fair-minded, reasoned, and insightful way. (GE3, GE7, GE8, PG2, PG3, PG4, PG5)
Identify some of the many points of interaction between cultures and their philosophical traditions. (GE3, GE6, GE7, GE8, PG2, PG3, PG4, PG5)
Use philosophical activity to explore issues that are important to them and to expand, challenge, and refine their views. (GE3, GE6, GE7, PG2, PG5)