PHL 225W - Philosophy and Film

Credits: 3
Instructional Contact Hours: 3

Introduces philosophy as an academic discipline, film as an artistic and intellectual medium, and the relationship between them. Examines a wide variety of films, and the philosophical themes of the films may include the nature of reality, truth and knowledge, the existence of God, consciousness and identity, ethics, political theory, race and gender, and death. Emphasizes the interpretation, evaluation, and discussion of the philosophical aspects of films. Develops the ability to view film and other visual media with greater sophistication, and to defend personal analyses of film and philosophy, both orally and in writing.

Prerequisite(s): High school GPA of 2.5 or higher within the last ten years, OR ENG 111 or ENG 111A with a grade of "C" or higher, OR instructor permission
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Humanities
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives

Understand the fundamental problems of philosophy, and evaluate leading theories about those problems.
1. Read, discuss, and evaluate philosophical texts.
2. Memorize philosophical concepts and facts about philosophical theories.
Understand, interpret, and evaluate film as an artistic and intellectual medium.
1. View, discuss, and evaluate important films.
2. Read academic essays about the films shown.
Identify and think independently, abstractly, and self-critically about the philosophical dimensions of their own lives.
1. Establish and discuss the relationship between philosophical theories (in texts or films) and students' concrete lives.
2. Write journals entries which emphasize this relationship and require self-criticism.
View film and other visual media in a more sophisticated and discerning fashion.
1. Discuss basic aspects of film theory and production.
2. Identify standards by which to judge films.
3. Make connections between film and other visual media such as television.
Articulate and defend their views, both verbally and in writing, about philosophical issues, films, and related matters.
1. Participate in class discussions about course readings and films.
2. Participate in group discussions about course readings and films.
3. Write two substantial argumentative papers.