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Academic Year 2000/2001

Introduction to Comparative Philosophy
PHIL 102 FA

We will approach comparative philosophy on two levels. We will begin by looking at specific philosophical issues--for instance, debates over the nature of the self or over the existence of human rights--in different cultural traditions, aiming to understand and assess them both in their native contexts and in comparison with one another. Then we will turn to assessing the idea of comparative philosophy itself. What sorts of comparison, if any, are legitimate? Can we judge other cultures' philosophical traditions by our own standards? What are the many things that relativism can mean, and which of them make sense?

MAJOR READINGS

Readings will include selections from both primary philosophical sources, in translation where necessary, and contemporary writings on the nature of comparative philosophy.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Assignments will include several short (500-word) essays, comments on other students' essays, and mandatory rewrites of one's original drafts. The class will also have a final examination.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the first class, they will be dropped from the class list. NOTE: Students must still submit a completed Drop/Add form to the Registrar's Office.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS PHIL    Grading Mode: Student Option   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-26-2001

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