PHIL 380

Spring 2026 All Classes

All Classes

Credit: 3 hours.

Philosophical examination of positions taken on some issue of current concern, for example, human sexuality, death and dying, feminism, race, intelligence, war, sociobiology, and environmental ethics. See Class Schedule for current topics.

May be repeated with approval.

PHIL 380 class schedule data for spring 2026
CRN Type Section Time Day Location Instructor Section Details
44319
Lecture-Discussion
U1
2:00PM -2:50PM
MWF
137 Armory
Flynn, A
Part of Term:
1
Date Range:
01/20/26-05/06/26
Credit:
3 hours
Section Info:
This course will treat two topics in connection to the good life: achievements and games. Many people think that achievements and games are good things and make their lives go well. They pride themselves on their achievements. They devote leisure time to playing games. But, these two goods are worth thinking about more carefully, especially in connection with one another. Why should we think achievements are good, independent of any broader social or personal benefit? Why should games be important sources of satisfaction when they seem so trivial? And, indeed, why should we – as many do -- pride ourselves in our achievements in games? Further, although games and achievements seem good to many, they are closely connected with phenomena commonly regarded as social pathologies: “gamification” and obsession with social status. We will attempt to sort these issues out. Along the way we will have reason to treat the following related topics as well: work, leisure, free time, and the value of collecting things.
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