Jess Creighton
The philosophy department will offer a number of interesting courses next summer that cover a range of fascinating topics.
"Feminism and Opression" (PHIL 308F) explores the morally ambiguous situations that can arise when people are oppressed. It will draw on ethical theory, as well as political writings and feminist critiques.
The idea of the course is to explore some morally ambiguous situations using the tools of feminist analysis, according to Heidi Tiedke, who will be teaching the course. Tiedke became interested in teaching the course as a result of a paper she wrote on the topic.
"Philosophy in Science Fiction" (PHIL 308Z) is a course that addresses various philosophical questions raised by science fiction.
"I've always loved science fiction and I've always loved philosophy, so this course was just a way to put two things I love together," said Greg Ealick, who will be teaching the class. Ealick said he has had the idea for this class since he was an undergraduate. He is currently completing his PhD. in philosophy.
As Ealick outs it, "You've got spaceships, aliens, and the meaning of life, what's not to like?"
Philosophy in Film will be offered twice, each version having a slightly different focus.
"There's a two-fold purpose with my class: first off, to discuss film as film, and analyze it, and secondly, to introduce the students to philosophy," said Michael Cifone, who is teaching one of the sections. Scott James, who will be teaching the other section, says "I'm using film for vivid examples in which to anchor philosophical theories. This is not an aesthetics class."
Both Cifone and James believe in the importance of film as a medium for grasping philosophical thought, and both have a strong interest in film.
"Film is modern. It's a uniquely 20th century art form, and it synthesizes different aspects of the arts," Cifone said.
A few movies that students wil be watching are Bladerunner, Total Recall, The Matrix, Citizen Kane, and The Insider.
Daniel Parker will be teaching "Nietzsche and Tragedy" (PHIL 308N). This course is a chance for philosophy majors to learn about something outside the bounds of the courses usually taught within the University of Maryland's Philosophy Department.
"This is something I've been thinking about since I was a teenager," said Parker.
The course will focus on the relationship between the art form of Greek tragedy and Nietzsche's philosophical ideas.
Other intriguing courses include "Thinking About the Arts" (Phil 209A), "Magic, Science and Religion" (PHIL 308Y), "Mind and World" (PHIL 308M) and "God, Evil and Evidence" (PHIL 308R). Staple courses such as Introduction to Philosophy, Contemporary Moral Issues and Introduction to Logic will also be on the schedule.) For a complete listing, go to
