Philosophy
Courses in philosophy (designated PHIL) may be applied as appropriate (according to individual program requirements) toward
- the general education requirement in the arts and humanities;
- a major in humanities;
- a focus in philosophy within the general studies major;
- a minor in philosophy or women's studies; and
- electives.
UMUC offers only a limited number of courses each session in this discipline.
PHIL 100 Introduction to Philosophy (3)
An introduction to the literature, problems, and methods of philosophy. The goal is to identify and consider central, recurring problems of philosophy. Emphasis is on the developing awareness of the significance of philosophical problems and to learning to offer rationally justifiable solutions. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 125 or PHIL 100.
PHIL 127 Living Religions of the World (3)
(Formerly HUMN 127.) An examination of the cultural construction of religious or nonreligious identity within the diverse world community. The goal is to understand the role of religion in current events. Discussion covers the world's major living religious traditions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 127, RLST 125, or PHIL 127.
PHIL 140 Contemporary Moral Issues (3)
An exploration of how philosophical analysis can serve as a foundation for thinking clearly about moral issues. The aim is to offer rational argument about ethical problems. Problems analyzed include such widely debated issues as abortion, euthanasia, the death penalty, homosexuality, pornography, reverse discrimination, business ethics, sexual equality, and economic equity. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 300 or PHIL 140.
PHIL 336 Ideas Shaping the 21st Century (3)
(Formerly HUMN 336.) An overview of ideas and philosophies likely to affect humanity and this planet in the early 21st century. The goal is to identify and understand predominant modes of thought to critically evaluate ideas that affect ways of living; articulate the principles underlying cooperation and dissention among different cultures, institutions, and individuals; and trace the influence of key ideas across various realms of human activity to navigate the challenges of the modern world. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 336 or PHIL 336.
PHIL 346 Contemporary Sexual Ethics (3)
(Formerly HUMN 442.) An inquiry into ethical considerations of contemporary sexual behavior. Topics include the changing dynamics between male and female (modes, expectations, and codes); the increase of sexual activity and freedom (premarital, postmarital, and extramarital); laws, such as those concerning abortion, homosexuality, and rape (whether outside or within marriage); the sexual rights of women; and speculations about ethical dimensions of human sexual activity in the future. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: HUMN 442 or PHIL 346.
Last updated: 2 August 2012