First-Year Seminars 110PX - Introduction to Philosophy Through Science Fiction

This course introduces the skills needed to navigate college, with a focus on philosophical writing, analysis and argument. We will pair classical and contemporary readings in philosophy with science fiction films and short stories in order to explore philosophical issues such as the nature of reality, free will, personal identity, artificial intelligence and the nature of mind. While science fiction will be used to animate and explore these issues, the emphasis of the class is on philosophical analysis and argument. Students will learn to integrate campus resources, such as LITS and the SAW Center, into their coursework, as they hone skills in clear, rigorously argued, analytic writing.
Taught by L. Sizer Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30-11:45am

Mount Holyoke first-year students only, by placement.