Philosophy: A Tour Through Literature and Film

The use of popular films, televisions shows and short stories will lead students in this team-taught course to the study of some basic philosophical texts which will allow them to explore such quests as "What is Reality' and "What is a meaningful life?" Students, through a number of thought experiments, reflective exercises and intensive discussions, will develop their own views on a specific philosophical topic and prepare a position paper to be presented to the class.

Facility

The Philosophy Workshop will be held in the Burgett Pavilion. The Burgett Pavilion houses the Department of Philosophy & Religion and the Chapel offices. In addition to the office areas, Burgett also contains three classrooms for formal instruction and a central lounge area for more informal discussions. Each classroom has an internet connection and the technology to do presentations and to show films. The entire Pavilion is also wireless enabled.

Faculty

Pat Croskery has been teaching philosophy at ONU since 1999 and has done the Philosophy Summer Honors Institute for the past two years. He is also the Director of the Honors Program. His specialties are in ethics and political philosophy. Current research interests include professional ethics and intellectual property.

Mark Dixon has been teaching philosophy at ONU since 1993 and has done the Philosophy Summer Honors Institute for the past two years. His specialties are in the philosophy of science and the philosophy of mind. Current research interests include environmental ethics and professional ethics.