Philosophy Through Film
Manchester
Liberal Arts :: Philosophy
Credits: 4.0
Term: Spring 2023 - UNHM Credit (15 weeks) (01/24/2023 - 05/08/2023)
Grade Mode: Letter Grading
Term: Spring 2023 - UNHM Credit (15 weeks) (01/24/2023 - 05/08/2023)
Grade Mode: Letter Grading
Class Size:
25
CRN: 56475
CRN: 56475
Philosophical exploration of film as a medium for developing philosophical ideas and for stimulating philosophical thinking about various issues reflected in film, from traditional philosophical issues to the pressing social and cultural issues of our time. The content will vary. Philosophical texts are read in tandem with screenings of a range of movies from Hollywood blockbusters and art house films to films made for TV. Philosophical issues such as the nature of consciousness, appearance and reality, God and evil, the good life, and time and memory might be explored. Film might also be used to examine representations of race and gender or violence in society; and the power of movies to influence society might be explored through documentaries and propaganda films. Required evening film screenings in addition to regular class meetings. Writing intensive.
Registration Approval Required. Contact Instructor or Academic Department for permission then register through Webcat.
Attributes: Writing Intensive Course
Instructors: Phillip Deen
Times & Locations
Start Date | End Date | Days | Time | Location |
---|---|---|---|---|
1/24/2023 | 5/8/2023 | TR | 1:01pm - 2:50pm | PANDRA P514 |
Additional Course Details:
This course has two threads. First, philosophical issues about film itself. What is the nature of film as an artform? Does film tell the truth and, if so, what is an artwork’s meaning? Why do films affect our emotions as they do? What is the relation between the form of film and its moral or political content? Is film an instrument of ideology, or a way to expose social power? Second, we will discuss philosophical issues raised by films such as Memento, The Matrix, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. For example: What is truth? What makes for a good life? What does it mean to be a person?