Modern Philosophy: Descartes to Hume (PHIL 220)

Required preparation, one course in philosophy.

Western Philosophy from Descartes to Hume (roughly 1620-1770) was marked by dramatic change and dynamic controversy.  Perhaps the most important issues flowed from the competing claims to knowledge of the new revolutionary science, religion, and what we now regard as philosophy proper.  This course focusses on these issues as they appear in the philosophical systems of Descartes and Hume.  Spinoza, Leibniz, and Berkeley will be treated more briefly.

Course requirements include two take-home examinations and participation on Blackboard discussion forums.

Alan Nelson’s webpage