PHI - Philosophy

This course is a survey of ethical perspectives as they relate to individuals and society. It begins with an introduction to major ethical approaches (virtue, duty, and utility) and an examination of various issues where these approaches might be applied. It continues with an extension of these ethical theories to society through an analysis of the idea of the social contract. The Rawlsian social contract will be highlighted and philosophic approaches to economic, racial, and gendered inequality will be analyzed. Students will engage with contemporary issues and illustrations in order to critically assess their own perspectives. Students will prepare a cumulative final assessment reflecting on the issues and approaches learned throughout the course. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

The course will examine the foundations of ethics as it applies to ethical decision-making by leaders in healthcare administration. The course will address many of the ethical issues within healthcare organizations. Pre-requisite(s): PHI 107. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

Students will explore the implications of the widespread adoption of generative artificial intelligence through a philosophical lens, including future conceptions of advancements in AI. Rather than focusing on technical skills or applied ethics, students explore foundational questions about what it means to be human in an age of emerging machine systems. Through readings, thought experiments, and analysis of contemporary AI narratives and media, students will develop a critical perspective on how societies interpret “intelligence,” how trust and perception shape public understanding, and what AI reveals about long-standing debates about knowledge, values, and identity.