Splash Biography

We've all got our own problems, so why should we care about helping others? Who should we help, and how do we do it? We'll discuss the basis of our moral obligation to help those in need, different conceptions of justice, and effectiveness of the provision of aid.

What makes someone a punk? What ideologies do punk musicians, in particular, have? We'll focus on punk music to look at themes of youth, anti-authority, anti-consumerism, left-wing/anarchist political views. We might identify some lesser known punks in the process.

How do we attain knowledge? Space, time, life, death - what does it all mean? Do we have free will? What does it mean to be ethical? These can seem like overwhelming questions, and this class will not address all the details to work towards definite answers. Instead, through discussion with your peers, the class will help show just how difficult and complex these questions are, breaking down the assumptions we make every day. The insight you gain through these efforts may inspire you to become individual philosophers!

This is an introduction to Miguel de Cervantes's classic Spanish novel. It will include reading, some analyzing, and acting for the chivalrous.