HON 379 - Philosophy Through Film

Prerequisite, acceptance to the University Honors Program, or consent of instructor, and Honors Director. An underlying assumption of this course is that some films can be interpreted as an attempt to provide an answer to a classic question in philosophy. We will investigate a range of feature films running the gamut from Hollywood blockbusters such as Inception to art house classics such as The Seventh Seal to experimental films such as Koyaanisqatsi. In addition to the films, we will read from primary sources, and explore the philosophical issues as addressed in both the films and the texts. While our main concern will be examining some classic debates in philosophy on such topics as the nature of the individual, our knowledge of the world, and our relationship to one another (both ethical and political), we will also consider the relative merits of film versus text in presenting philosophical arguments. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits