Course Preview: PHIL 295 Major Author: Heidegger

What is the meaning of being?

Astonishingly, the great philosopher Martin Heidegger argued that we have not ever even posed the question of the meaning of being. At least not in any radical way. So he set out to pose this question with all philosophical radicality, and not take its answer for granted any more. And his Sein und Zeit--Being and Time--is his first report back from his investigations. It stands as one of the truly monumental works of 20th century philosophy, and has exerted a contemporary influence wider than almost any other single text.

This spring we have the unique opportunity to offer a Major Author's course on Martin Heidegger, in which Being and Time will be the primary focus. A close reading course, Prof. Aron Reppmann will be your guide on this amazing journey. Heidegger's influence has been decisive upon contemporary Continental philosophy, upon theology and upon so-called postmodernism in the arts and culture in general. Any student interested in these issues will profit from this course.

PHIL 295 will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 AM.

Course Preview: PHIL 321 Existentialism and Phenomenology

Why is there something, rather than nothing?

What is the meaning of human existence?

After the excesses of modern rationalism and scientism, is there a meaning to be found? Can we recover a sense of the meaning of existence? Can we get back to the bedrock, the things themselves?

These questions motivated the movements of existentialism and phenomenology, the most profound influential tradition of contemporary Continental philosophy. They influenced so-called post-modern thinking in profound ways as well. The course will survey the writings of existential thinkers such as Kierkegaard (that's him in the picture!) as well as the phenomenological movement of Husserl and Heidegger.

Prof. Pierson teaches this course and has a great personal passion for these issues. His graduate work was in the philosophy of this period. He brings a keen sense of the Christian dimension to philosophical inquiry in this field, especially for the way that the Continental tradition has shaped the Reformational philosophical tradition that helped found Trinity.

Join him Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11AM.

PHIL 102 and 102 (or 108) are prerequisites for this course.

Course Preview: PHIL 201 History of Philosophy I

From Thales to Democritus, from Socrates and Plato to Aristotle, from the Stoics to the neo-Platonists, and from St. Augustine (on the right) to St. Anselm and St. Thomas: PHIL 201 is an encounter with the figures and texts that have shaped our culture. It begins with the ancient Greeks and culminates in the Medieval synthesis of Christian faith and reason. This is an excellent course for anyone with a curiousity about the great ancient worldviews that helped shape Christian thought.

Prof. Aron Reppmann, an expert in the philosophy of Plato, teaches this course. He's passionate about Plato and the Platonic tradition, and will help you explore the riches of our ancient past. For him, as well as the ancients, philosophy is truly a love of wisdom.

Join Prof. Reppmann at 9AM MWF this spring!

(No prior background in philosophy is necessary, though PHIL 101 and 102 (or 108) are recommended.)

NEW in Spring 2007: Philosophical Theology (PHIL/THEO 311)

Alvin Plantinga,
Philosophical Theologian Extraordinaire

Ever wonder how evil and the goodness of God are compatible? How God responds to evil? And we should, too?

Ever wonder why we are free if God knows everything in advance, including what you are doing right this very instant? If you could never have chosen otherwise than God knows, are you really free?

Ever wonder about the mysterious nature of God? Of His being three-in-one? Being both human and divine in the incarnation of Jesus Christ?

These questions and more are all on the agenda in Philosophical Theology, a new course this spring taught by Prof. Stephen Lake, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 o'clock.

If you have completed PHIL 101 and 102, you are elligible to enroll.

If you are planning on seminary or graduate school in theology or philosophy, this course will be indispensible preparation.

Cross-listed in both Philosophy and Theology, it can count towards major, minor or elective credit in either department.

Any other questions? Please see Prof. Lake, or post your questions here and I will respond!