Fall 2009
PHIL 153 | Fundamental Questions of Philosophy
What does it mean to be "human?" What is the nature of human persons? And what are we called to be? This introductory course in philosophy is organized around these "big questions," looking for answers and wisdom across the history of philosophy, including Plato, Aquinas, Descartes, and especially Augustine's Confessions. We will also explore these philosophical themes in films such as Bladerunner and American Beauty. Download the syllabus 
PHIL 378 | Philosophy of Language and Interpretation
Any philosophy of language worth its salt needs to be able to make sense of poetry. This will be a working axiom of this advanced seminar. Many paradigms in philosophy of language are primarily focused on language's communicative function. Our explorations will consider this, but also a number of other "uses" of language which elude communicative models. This semester, after opening with a consideration of Augustine's account of signs, we will particularly explore philosophies of language and interpretation in the pragmatist tradition (Wittgenstein, Rorty, Brandom)--with poetry as a persistent "case study" throughout the semester. Download the syllabus
Spring 2010
CMS 151 | Church and Society (with Mark Mulder, Sociology)
This course introduces students to the study of human social activity by examining the Christian church as a societal institution in the North American context. In particular, the course will introduce students to an innovative, give-and-take approach to both "the church" and "society." On the one hand, as an introduction to the study of human social activity, we will seek to appreciate the church as a social institution and consider its dynamic relationship with other norms, patterns, structures and institutions in a wider societal context--with a specific focus on issues of race. We will appreciate that the church exhibits many of the same features as other social institutions. On the other hand, we will also be considering how, implicit in the church's practice, is a distinct and normative vision for social life and human flourishing. Download the syllabus
PHIL 375 | Philosophical Anthropology
This seminar will explore the intersection of phenomenology and cogntive science as a site for understanding the nature of the human person as an "intentional" creature. Drawing on the work of Merleau-Ponty, Gallagher, Steinbock and others, we will consider the bodily nature of intentionality, its formation through material practices, and the role of the imagination in constituting our world. Liturgy and worship will function as a case study throughout the semester. Download the syllabus
