Course Descriptions
Philosophy
PHI 100
Introduction to Critical Thinking
3 credits
This introductory course challenges students with the question: ''Why do you think the way you do?'' It gives practical consideration to overcoming thinking errors, developing ethical thought, and applying career-specific principles of effective critical thinking to real-life situations.
PHI 300
Ethics for Life
3 credits
This course will focus on the issue of ethical behavior in contemporary life. How does one determine what conduct is right? How should one behave toward other people? Is there a “good life” for humans? How does one decide on the moral correctness of social issues? To address these questions, this course will challenge students to move beyond ethical relativism and consider more principled approaches to moral reasoning with the goal of improving their ability to make real-life, moral decisions. Students will gain broad exposure to major ethical philosophies and critically examine and compare these and other ethics-related influences, including religion, in the context of relevant contemporary issues.PHI 301
Philosophy of Love
3 credits
Love is one of the most powerful and least understood motivators of human behavior. It has been the subject of philosophical and psychological analyses throughout the history of human thought. Superficial examination of the concept usually results in misunderstanding and self-deception. This complex topic warrants thorough investigation. Americans tend to develop skewed notions of right and wrong, good and bad, and love and hate based on their idiosyncratic experience. A rational exploration of the notion of love should enable most people to function at a higher cognitive level, with fewer emotional blinders so that they can work out for themselves their own ideas of love, friendship, community, family, eroticism, trust, care, concern, and selflessness.
PHI 302
Ethics and Values in Behavioral Science
3 credits
This course is an introduction to ethics and values with emphasis on contemporary society and professional issues.
Prerequisite(s): PSY 101 or SOC 101
PHI 310
The Art of Rational Thinking
3 credits
This course is designed to build a better understanding of good thinking by exploring six intellectual virtues: curiosity, perseverance, empathy, humility, courage, and fair-mindedness. Students will apply these traits in a variety of ways with the goal of becoming better thinkers and decision makers.
PHI 311
Building Brain Power
3 credits
This course seeks to unlock the individual’s creative potential, both personally and professionally. Creativity is typically ascribed to the outstandingly gifted and, most notably, artists. Therefore, many assume they cannot be creative unless they were born especially talented. However, research indicates that creative skills can be taught and developed. Considering the magnitude and complexity of problems facing contemporary society, fostering the understanding and growth of creative potential has become a crucial agenda.
PHI 312
Creativity
3 credits
This course will focus on the power of creativity to bring vibrancy and renewal to almost any aspect of your life. Whether it is health care, law, education, IT, or just about any other career, the creative mind is often the most innovative, insightful, and fulfilled. Utilizing readings, activities, reflection, and research, you will discover the power of creativity not only in the workplace, but also in navigating conflict, deepening relationships, parenting children, and moving our world toward prosperity and peace.
PHI 314
Ethics for Computer Professionals
3 credits
The theory and practice of ethics for computer professionals are examined. The primary goal of the course is to study the basis for ethical decision making and the methodology for reaching ethical decisions. Ethical issues related to the design, implementation, application, and protection of computer and information systems are explored. Emphasis is placed on the technical and administrative aspects of computer and Internet crimes, safeguards and security, privacy, confidentiality, and data integrity.
Prerequisite(s): CTA 206 or CTA 210 or equivalent
PHI 325
Empowerment Strategies
3 credits
This course offers strategies for seeing possibilities in situations, ways of changing perspectives, evaluating opportunities, and discovering the power within you to change your attitudes, your work, your relationships, and your life for the better.