Sample Course Syllabi

PHIL 110: Introduction to Philosophy (PDF)

This course is a general introduction to the study of philosophy. I usually teach this course historically, beginning with Socrates and emphasizing a figure from each of the major periods (ancient, medieval, modern, contemporary). Selections focus on a set of interconnected themes: the value of philosophy, the nature of the good life, free will, and evil.

PHIL 111: Philosophy of Human Nature (PDF)

This introductory course surveys various approaches to human nature. It typically includes such topics as the relation of mind and body, identity through time, life after death and the existence of the soul, and free wil.

PHIL 336: Virtues & Vices (PDF)

A course in virtue ethics which focuses on the nature of moral character, the cardinal virtues and their corresponding vices, and the capital vices and their corresponding virtues. The latter is usually illustrated througha reading of Dante's Purgatorio.

PHIL 410: Metaphysics

A survey of issues and approaches to contemporary metaphysics. Topics include: ontology, identity, change, time, persistence, composition, modality, causation, and realism/anti-realism.

PHIL 412: Philosophy of God (PDF)

A survey of issues issues in contemporary philosophy of religion. Topics include: arguments for the existence of God, the problems of evil and divine hiddenness, divine attributes and providence, and the afterlife.

PHIL 471: Aquinas (PDF)

This special topics in medieval philosophy course is devoted to the thought of Thomas Aquinas. Particular attention is paid to his philosophical theology, metaphysics, and ethics.

PHIL 494: Free Will & Character formation (PDF)

A special topics course focusing on issues at the intersection of metaphysics, action theory and ethics. Some of the questions to be explored are the following: What is free will? Can I be free if I'm determined? Can I be morally responsible for actions I don't do freely? Can I choose to do something that I know is not good for me to do? What's the connection between free will and moral character?

HNRS 331: The World of Augustine (PDF)

A team-taught, interdisciplinary (philosophy and history) course on Augustine of Hippo. Particular attention is paid to his intellectual, cultural, and historical setting; his philosophical and theological thought; and his lasting impact on the West. Part of the Honors Program.

Various Handouts

Information on Majoring in Philosophy (PDF)

Thinking about majoring in philosophy? See why that might be a good idea here.

How to Write Philosophy Papers (PDF)

Information on how to write papers for your philosophy courses. Originally a handout for a presentation to the USD Writing Center.

Course Evaluations (PDF)

An overview of my course evaluations from USD (current through Spring 2007).