PHIL 105 Philosophy and Current Events

The events of contemporary life often raise significant ethical, epistemic, metaphysical, or political problems, which philosophy can help us to better understand and address. This introductory philosophy course applies philosophical thinking to issues arising from current events. Specific topics will vary from year to year, but will aim to reflect issues at the forefront of public discourse. These may include topics such as the ethical and epistemic consequences of technological changes, the aesthetic or political dimensions of art and artists, the politics of identity and identifying, the rise of internet trolls, ‘cancel culture,’ populism, and the return of fascism.