Introduction to the main problems of philosophy and its methods of inquiry, analysis and criticism. Works of important philosophers are read.

The works, figures, and theories in political philosophy. Topics include the nature and justification of political power, authority, justice, equality, rights, and freedom.

Moral issues confronting men and women in contemporary society. Topics vary but may include discussion of problems related to abortion, drugs, euthanasia, war, social engineering, and punishment of criminals.

Philosophy in the ancient world. Topics include theories of reality, knowledge, and ethics by central figures in ancient Greek philosophy such as Plato, Epicurus, and Aristotle.

The development of post-Renaissance philosophy with primary emphasis on the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Topics include theories of reality, knowledge, and ethics by central figures in modern philosophy such as Descartes, Locke, Berkley, and Hume.

A study of traditional problems pertaining to understanding the concept of mind, for example, the mind-body relation, personal identity, and theories of consciousness.

The moral principles of conduct and the basic concepts underlying these principles, such as good, evil, right, wrong, justice, value, duty and obligation. The ethical works of influential philosophers are analyzed in terms of these concepts.

The nature and foundations of knowledge. Topics include skepticism and the nature of justification.

Central issues in metaphysics, a branch of philosophy which tries to answer fundamental questions about reality. Topics include causation, freedom, determinism, time, laws of nature, and the nature of existence.

Philosophical thought on religious topics and concepts. Topics include arguments for and against the existence of God, the nature of God, the rationality of belief in God, and life after death.

Selected topics in philosophy, planned around areas of interest.