PHIL 330 - The Origins of Western Civilization: Mathematics and Philosophy in Magna Graecia and Ancient Sicily

(Same as COM 330, MATH 330.) Prerequisite, consent of instructor. This innovative interdisciplinary and multicultural course begins with an interdisciplinary study of philosophical and religious thinkers from the earliest Greek philosophers through the Middle Ages. We see how the ideas of the Pre-Socratics, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Anselm, Maimonides, and Aquinas change through time, and inform our contemporary search for moral and religious values. Next, the course covers a chronological study of the development of mathematics. Emphasis will focus on the solution of selected mathematical problems associated with historical periods. Finally, this course further explores Italian culture from a variety of perspectives to help deepen learners’ understanding of the interconnectedness of culture and communication. To experience this interconnectedness first-hand, we will explore the various Magna Graecia territories and Ancient Sicily including parts of the modern Italian regions of Calabria, Basilicata, Puglia, and Campania and the coasts of Sicily to better understand where these ideas, texts, and values originated. Taken altogether, this approximate 10-day journey will take students through a range of cultural experiences in Southern Italy to offer students the opportunity to (1) compare Italian culture with the culture of the United States (and/or their own unique cultural background), and (2) understand the interconnectedness of a social identity approach to communication and culture and its effect on human behavior and attitudes. Letter grade. Fee: TBD. (Offered interterm.) 3 credits