What counts as philosophy? Who counts as a philosopher? The traditional answers to these questions exclude many texts and many thinkers from the category of "the philosophical." In this course, we will challenge the traditional answers and seek to expand our understanding of the vehicles for philosophical expression, and the kinds of people who count as philosophers. The central philosophical question that will be our focus is: what is human nature? Treating this question will involve discussions of gender, class, education, and freedom. We will engage with the writings of women and non-Western thinkers, and study non-traditional philosophical texts like personal essays, poetry, and novels. Authors include Murasaki Shikibu, Christine de Pisan, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, Mulla Sadra, Michel de Montaigne, and Margaret Cavendish.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 16

Prerequisites: One previous course in philosophy or permission of the instructor.

Instructor: Walsh

Distribution Requirements: EC - Epistemology and Cognition

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Not Offered

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