Philosophy
Overview
Philosophy examines fundamental and important questions regarding the nature of truth, sound reasoning, morality, beauty, God, justice, reality, and the elements essential to living the good life. Diligent study of philosophy will improve one’s critical thinking skills in order to prepare for a career in teaching, law, medical ethics, public service, writing and publishing, social work and religious services, as well as provide a strong foundation for graduate work in various academic disciplines.
This program is intended to prepare students for transfer into baccalaureate philosophy programs at the California State University. It provides essential lower division work and offers a broad selection of elective courses. It also offers the opportunity to develop general skills, such as critical thinking, comprehending challenging reading materials, and producing clear and precise argumentative writing, which are useful in a broad range of endeavors.
This program is intended to prepare students for transfer into baccalaureate philosophy programs at the California State University. It offers the opportunity to develop general skills such as critical thinking, comprehending challenging reading materials, and producing clear and precise argumentative writing, which are useful for a broad range of endeavors.
Program Maps
- Dean Patti Leonard
- Department Chair Timothy Quandt
- Phone (916) 558-2496
- Email QuandtT@scc.losrios.edu
Associate Degrees for Transfer
A.A.-T. in Philosophy
This program is intended to prepare students for transfer into baccalaureate philosophy programs at the California State University. It provides essential lower division work and offers a broad selection of elective courses. It also offers the opportunity to develop general skills, such as critical thinking, comprehending challenging reading materials, and producing clear and precise argumentative writing, which are useful in a broad range of endeavors.
The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) student completion requirements (as stated in SB1440 law):
(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
(A) The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements (CSU GE-Breadth).
(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
ADTs also require that students must earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A "P" (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2023
Degree Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| PHIL 300 | Introduction to Philosophy (3) | 3 |
| or PHIL 310 | Introduction to Ethics (3) | |
| PHIL 325 | Symbolic Logic | 3 |
| PHIL 330 | History of Classical Philosophy (3) | 3 |
| or PHIL 480 | History of Classical Philosophy - Honors (3) | |
| PHIL 331 | History of Modern Philosophy (3) | 3 |
| or PHIL 481 | History of Modern Philosophy - Honors (3) | |
| A minimum of 6 units from the following: | 6 | |
| PHIL 300 | Introduction to Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 306 | Environmental Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 310 | Introduction to Ethics (3) | |
| PHIL 338 | Contemporary Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 352 | Introduction to World Religions (3) | |
| PHIL 368 | Law, Justice, and Punishment (3) | |
| Total Units: | 18 | |
The Associate in Arts in Philosophy for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- comprehend texts on both literal and inferential levels.
- articulate ideas and arguments in a clear and precise manner.
- defend their own views with careful and compelling reasoning.
- express the perspectives and arguments of others in an accurate and nuanced manner.
Career Information
Those who possess M.A. and Ph.D degrees in philosophy find employment in the academic sector as teachers and professors. In addition, undergraduate study in philosophy is good preparation for law school and other graduate programs requiring facility with critical reasoning and mastering conceptually challenging material.
Associate Degrees
A.A. in Environmental Literacy
The Environmental Literacy degree is designed to provide students with an interdisciplinary knowledge of environmental issues and theories focused on the humanities and social sciences (rather than the natural sciences). The program will require that participants learn (1) various historical, literary, social, psychological, economic, and philosophical dimensions and implications of environmental issues and (2) to read, write, evaluate, revise, and present their ideas with a level of clarity and cogency that will make them eligible for immediate employment.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2023
Degree Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| A minimum of 6 units from the following: | 6 | |
| BIOL 305 | Natural History (4) | |
| BIOL 350 | Environmental Biology (3) | |
| GEOG 302 | Environmental Studies & Sustainability (3) | |
| A minimum of 6 units from the following: | 6 | |
| ECON 304 | Principles of Microeconomics (3) | |
| ENGLT 328 | Literature and The Environment (3) | |
| PHIL 306 | Environmental Philosophy (3) | |
| POLS 350 | Environmental Politics (3) | |
| A minimum of 6 units from the following: | 6 | |
| BIOL 305 | Natural History (4) | |
| BIOL 350 | Environmental Biology (3) | |
| BIOL 360 | Environmental Regulations (3) | |
| CHEM 320 | Environmental Chemistry (4) | |
| GEOG 302 | Environmental Studies & Sustainability (3) | |
| GEOG 305 | Global Climate Change (3) | |
| ECON 304 | Principles of Microeconomics (3) | |
| ENGLT 328 | Literature and The Environment (3) | |
| PHIL 306 | Environmental Philosophy (3) | |
| POLS 350 | Environmental Politics (3) | |
| SOC 301 | Social Problems (3) | |
| STAT 480 | Introduction to Probability and Statistics - Honors (4) | |
| or STAT 300 | Introduction to Probability and Statistics (4) | |
| Total Units: | 18 | |
The Environmental Literacy Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- possess specialized knowledge that will be applicable in fields such as environmental politics, literature, economics, philosophy, and community activism.
- demonstrate familiarity with and understanding of the major environmental positions presented in the relevant history and literature.
- identify, expose, analyze, and evaluate the interconnections between the environment and the domestic and world economies.
- identify and critically evaluate environmental conflicts in various realms and at various levels.
- write position papers in regard to environmental concerns that are clear, concise, and well constructed.
- identify, expose, analyze, and evaluate the ethical dimensions of various environmental theories and practices.
- compete for environment focused jobs in administration, law, government, design, journalism, etc.
Career Information
This degree will evidence competency in understanding and ability to work successfully with environmental problems and solutions upon graduation with the AA. Students should be able to assume administrative and research positions and other entry level, non-technical positions. For example, graduates with an associate degree in Environmental Literacy should be employable as environmental research assistants and community organizers (e.g., aiding community transition to low carbon activities). Depending on the course work selected, the course of study may lead into several social science (e.g., political science), humanities (e.g., philosophy), or environmental study bachelor degree programs. Note that most environmental study degree programs in California require natural science and math courses over and above those required for this AA. Students may find employment in policy, law, journalism, education, activism, and arts in regard to the environment. Positions such as policy adviser, energy contract negotiator, city resiliency specialist, public transportation coordinator, and environmental journalist are a sample of possible lines of work. Lastly, this program will prepare students to be active, informed participants in their communities in responding to the environmental challenges confronting us.
A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Arts and Humanities
The Interdisciplinary Studies degree is designed for students who seek a greater understanding of disciplines within the arts and humanities. This program is a good choice for students planning on transferring to the California State University or the University of California. The student will be able to satisfy general education requirements and focus on transferable course work that relates to a specific major and/or individual interest.
It is highly recommended that students consult a counselor to determine the classes within each area that will best prepare them for their intended transfer major.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2023
Degree Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| A minimum of 18 units from the following: | 181 | |
| ARABIC 401 | Elementary Arabic (5) | |
| ARABIC 402 | Elementary Arabic (5) | |
| ART 300 | Drawing and Composition I (3) | |
| ART 301 | Digital Drawing and Composition (3) | |
| ART 302 | Drawing and Composition II (3) | |
| ART 304 | Figure Drawing I (3) | |
| ART 305 | Figure Drawing II (3) | |
| ART 307 | Rendering (3) | |
| ART 310 | Pen and Ink Drawing (3) | |
| ART 312 | Portrait Drawing (3) | |
| ART 320 | Design: Fundamentals (3) | |
| ART 322 | Design: Image and Content (3) | |
| ART 323 | Design: Color Theory (3) | |
| ART 324 | Collage and Assemblage (3) | |
| ART 330 | Mural Painting (3) | |
| ART 332 | Oil Painting (3) | |
| ART 333 | Intermediate Oil Painting (3) | |
| ART 334 | Acrylic Painting (3) | |
| ART 335 | Acrylic Painting: Abstract (3) | |
| ART 336 | Watercolor Painting (3) | |
| ART 337 | Intermediate Watercolor Painting (3) | |
| ART 361 | Printmaking: Survey (3) | |
| ART 362 | Printmaking: Intaglio (3) | |
| ART 363 | Printmaking: Screen Printing (3) | |
| ART 364 | Printmaking: Relief (3) | |
| ART 366 | Printmaking: Lithography (3) | |
| ART 367 | Book Arts (3) | |
| ART 370 | Three Dimensional Design (3) | |
| ART 372 | Sculpture (3) | |
| ART 373 | Intermediate Sculpture (3) | |
| ART 374 | Sculpture Lab (1 - 2) | |
| ART 375 | Figure Sculpture (3) | |
| ART 380 | Techniques in Metal Design (3) | |
| ART 381 | Intermediate Techniques in Metal Design (3) | |
| ART 384 | Metal Design: Emphasis In Casting (3) | |
| ART 385 | Metal Arts Lab (1 - 2) | |
| ART 390 | Ceramics (3) | |
| ART 391 | Intermediate Ceramics (3) | |
| ART 392 | Ceramic Lab (1 - 2) | |
| ART 394 | Wheel Thrown Ceramics, Beginning (3) | |
| ART 395 | Wheel Thrown Ceramics, Intermediate (3) | |
| ART 396 | Wheel Thrown Ceramics, Advanced (3) | |
| ART 400 | Clay Sculpture (3) | |
| ART 404 | Intermediate Clay Sculpture (3) | |
| ART 440 | Artists' Materials and Techniques (3) | |
| ART 443 | Art Gallery Operations (3) | |
| ART 445 | Art Gallery Operations (3) | |
| ART 446 | Portfolio Preparation (3) | |
| ART 494 | Topics in Art (0.5 - 4) | |
| ART 495 | Independent Studies in Art (1 - 3) | |
| ART 498 | Work Experience in Art (0.5 - 4) | |
| ARTH 300 | Art Appreciation (3) | |
| ARTH 304 | Ancient Art (3) | |
| ARTH 306 | Medieval Art (3) | |
| ARTH 307 | Italian Renaissance Art (3) | |
| ARTH 308 | Renaissance Tradition in Art (3) | |
| ARTH 310 | Modern Art (3) | |
| ARTH 312 | Women in Art (3) | |
| ARTH 313 | History of Western Architecture: Prehistoric to Renaissance (3) | |
| ARTH 314 | History of Western Architecture: Renaissance to Modern (3) | |
| ARTH 318 | History of American Art (3) | |
| ARTH 320 | Multicultural Art in America (3) | |
| ARTH 324 | Art of the Americas (3) | |
| ARTH 325 | Native American Art History (3) | |
| ARTH 328 | Survey of African Art (3) | |
| ARTH 332 | Asian Art (3) | |
| ARTH 334 | International Contemporary Art (3) | |
| ARTH 410 | Early 20th Century Art (3) | |
| ARTH 484 | Ancient Art-Honors (3) | |
| ARTH 486 | Medieval Art-Honors (3) | |
| ARTH 487 | Renaissance Art-Honors (3) | |
| ARTH 488 | Modern Art--Honors (3) | |
| ARTH 494 | Topics in Art History (0.5 - 4) | |
| ARTH 495 | Independent Studies in Art History (1 - 3) | |
| ARTH 499 | Experimental Offering in Art History (0.5 - 4) | |
| CANT 401 | Elementary Cantonese (4) | |
| CANT 402 | Elementary Cantonese (4) | |
| CANT 411 | Intermediate Cantonese (4) | |
| CANT 412 | Intermediate Cantonese (4) | |
| COMM 305 | Oral Interpretation (3) | |
| DEAF 310 | American Sign Language I (4) | |
| DEAF 312 | American Sign Language II (4) | |
| DEAF 314 | American Sign Language III (4) | |
| DEAF 316 | American Sign Language IV (4) | |
| ENGCW 400 | Creative Writing (3) | |
| ENGCW 410 | Fiction Writing Workshop (3) | |
| ENGCW 420 | Poetry Writing Workshop (3) | |
| ENGCW 430 | Creative Non-Fiction Writing Workshop (3) | |
| ENGLT 301 | Introduction to Literature in Hip-Hop Culture (3) | |
| ENGLT 303 | Introduction to the Short Story (3) | |
| ENGLT 310 | English Literature I (3) | |
| ENGLT 311 | English Literature II (3) | |
| ENGLT 317 | The English Bible as Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 320 | American Literature I (3) | |
| ENGLT 321 | American Literature II (3) | |
| ENGLT 327 | Literature of California (3) | |
| ENGLT 328 | Literature and The Environment (3) | |
| ENGLT 331 | African-American Literature (1730-1930) (3) | |
| ENGLT 332 | African-American Literature (1930-Present) (3) | |
| ENGLT 334 | Asian-American Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 335 | Latino, Mexican-American, and Chicano Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 345 | Mythologies of the World (3) | |
| ENGLT 360 | Women in Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 365 | Introduction to Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 370 | Children and Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 380 | Introduction to Shakespeare (3) | |
| ENGLT 392 | Science Fiction and Fantasy (3) | |
| ENGLT 400 | Introduction to Film (3) | |
| ENGLT 401 | Women in Film and Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 403 | Film Adaptations (3) | |
| ENGLT 404 | Documentary Film Studies (3) | |
| ENGLT 480 | World Literature: Antiquity to the Early Modern World - Honors (3) | |
| ENGLT 481 | World Literature: Seventeenth Century to Present - Honors (3) | |
| ENGLT 494 | Topics in Literature (3) | |
| ENGLT 495 | Independent Studies in Literature (1 - 3) | |
| ENGLT 499 | Experimental Offering in Literature (0.5 - 4) | |
| ENGWR 301 | College Composition and Literature (3) | |
| ENGWR 303 | Argumentative Writing and Critical Thinking Through Literature (4) | |
| FREN 401 | Elementary French (4) | |
| FREN 402 | Elementary French (4) | |
| FREN 411 | Intermediate French (4) | |
| FREN 412 | Intermediate French (4) | |
| GREEK 401 | Elementary Modern Standard Greek (4) | |
| GREEK 402 | Elementary Modern Standard Greek (4) | |
| HIST 300 | History of Western Civilization (3) | |
| HIST 302 | History of Western Civilization (3) | |
| HIST 307 | History of World Civilizations to 1500 (3) | |
| HIST 308 | History of World Civilizations, 1500 to Present (3) | |
| HIST 309 | World History in the Twentieth Century (3) | |
| HUM 300 | Classical Humanities (3) | |
| HUM 310 | Modern Humanities (3) | |
| HUM 332 | American Humanities (3) | |
| HUM 352 | Religious Themes in Western Art, Literature and Music (3) | |
| ITAL 401 | Elementary Italian (4) | |
| ITAL 402 | Elementary Italian (4) | |
| JAPAN 401 | Elementary Japanese (4) | |
| JAPAN 402 | Elementary Japanese (4) | |
| JAPAN 411 | Intermediate Japanese (4) | |
| JAPAN 412 | Intermediate Japanese (4) | |
| KOREAN 401 | Elementary Korean (4) | |
| KOREAN 402 | Elementary Korean (4) | |
| MAND 401 | Elementary Mandarin (4) | |
| MAND 402 | Elementary Mandarin (4) | |
| MAND 411 | Intermediate Mandarin (4) | |
| MAND 412 | Intermediate Mandarin (4) | |
| MUFHL 305 | Music Appreciation (3) | |
| MUFHL 309 | Introduction to American Popular Music (3) | |
| MUFHL 310 | Survey of Music History and Literature (Greek Antiquity to 1750) (3) | |
| MUFHL 315 | Jazz History (3) | |
| MUFHL 330 | World Music (3) | |
| MUIVI 315 | Beginning Voice (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 325 | Intermediate Voice (2) | |
| MUIVI 330 | Advanced Voice (2) | |
| MUIVI 345 | Beginning Piano I (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 346 | Beginning Piano II (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 355 | Intermediate Piano I (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 356 | Intermediate Piano II (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 357 | Advanced Piano I (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 358 | Advanced Piano II (1 - 2) | |
| MUIVI 371 | Intermediate Guitar (2) | |
| MUIVI 372 | Advanced Guitar (2) | |
| MUIVI 373 | Popular Electric Bass Styles I (1) | |
| MUIVI 374 | Popular Electric Bass Styles II (1) | |
| MUIVI 375 | Popular Electric Guitar Styles I (1) | |
| MUIVI 377 | Popular Electric Guitar Styles II (1) | |
| MUIVI 380 | Improvisation Workshop I (2) | |
| MUIVI 381 | Improvisation Workshop II (2) | |
| MUIVI 382 | Improvisation Workshop III (2) | |
| MUIVI 452 | World Drumming (1) | |
| MUIVI 454 | Indian Classical Fusion Improvisation (1) | |
| MUP 325 | Jazz Band (2) | |
| MUP 335 | Concert Band (1) | |
| MUP 355 | College Choir (2) | |
| PHIL 300 | Introduction to Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 306 | Environmental Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 310 | Introduction to Ethics (3) | |
| PHIL 330 | History of Classical Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 331 | History of Modern Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 338 | Contemporary Philosophy (3) | |
| PHIL 352 | Introduction to World Religions (3) | |
| PHIL 368 | Law, Justice, and Punishment (3) | |
| PRSIAN 401 | Elementary Persian (4) | |
| PRSIAN 402 | Elementary Persian (4) | |
| PNJABI 401 | Elementary Punjabi (4) | |
| PNJABI 402 | Elementary Punjabi (4) | |
| RUSS 401 | Elementary Russian (4) | |
| RUSS 402 | Elementary Russian (4) | |
| RUSS 411 | Intermediate Russian (4) | |
| RUSS 412 | Intermediate Russian (4) | |
| SPAN 401 | Elementary Spanish (4) | |
| SPAN 402 | Elementary Spanish (4) | |
| SPAN 411 | Intermediate Spanish (4) | |
| SPAN 412 | Intermediate Spanish (4) | |
| TA 300 | Introduction to the Theatre (3) | |
| TA 302 | History and Theory of the Theatre I (3) | |
| TA 303 | History and Theory of the Theatre II (3) | |
| TA 308 | Diversity in American Theatre (3) | |
| TA 342 | Introduction to Acting (3) | |
| TA 350 | Theory and Techniques of Acting I (3) | |
| TA 351 | Theory and Techniques of Acting II (3) | |
| TAFILM 300 | Introduction to Film (3) | |
| TAFILM 302 | History of Film (3) | |
| TAFILM 303 | History of Film: 1880's through 1950's (3) | |
| TAFILM 304 | History of Film: 1950's to Present (3) | |
| TAFILM 320 | Cinema Genres (3) | |
| TAFILM 330 | Film Making (3) | |
| TAFILM 360 | Screenwriting (3) | |
| TGLG 401 | Elementary Tagalog (4) | |
| TGLG 402 | Elementary Tagalog (4) | |
| VIET 401 | Elementary Vietnamese (4) | |
| VIET 402 | Elementary Vietnamese (4) | |
| Total Units: | 18 | |
1Select courses from at least three areas.
The Interdisciplinary Studies: Arts and Humanities Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- evaluate and interpret the ways in which people throughout the ages in different cultures have responded to themselves and the world around them in artistic and cultural creation and expression.
Career Information
Students who complete this degree pattern can find career opportunities in the growing film and entertainment industries; in education; in the design and fabrication industries, and as an independent contractor concentrating in the area of their study.
Philosophy (PHIL) Courses
PHIL 300 Introduction to Philosophy
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 300 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); AA/AS Area I; CSU Area A3; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 100
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course uses critical thinking techniques to analyze and evaluate the positions, arguments, and methods of different thinkers as expressed in primary texts. Typical topics include human freedom, the belief in God, the nature and limits of scientific knowledge, the basis of moral judgments, natural rights, and the nature of the State.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate, orally and in writing, a comprehension of the positions, arguments, and methods of various thinkers as expressed in primary texts.
- demonstrate a critical understanding of diverse arguments on major philosophical topics such as the belief in a god; the nature of truth; the requirements of reality; the concept of the self; the nature and limits of knowledge; and the nature of values: aesthetic, moral, or religious.
- formulate and argue, orally and in writing, for a position on a philosophical issue such as the possibility of knowledge or the origins of morality.
PHIL 306 Environmental Philosophy
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course explores historical and contemporary philosophical positions regarding our place in nature and how these positions apply to specific environmental issues. It examines what makes the natural environment valuable and the responsibilities that arise from that value. In addition, it presents theories regarding how the environment affects and is affected by our beliefs.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain basic understanding of environmental challenges such as global climate change, sea acidification, deforestation, etc. and why they require philosophical attention.
- properly use technical terminology in regard to the environment and to explain how various philosophical positions contribute to the current state of affairs.
- identify, describe, explain, and critically evaluate philosophical positions and arguments pertinent to our place in and interaction with the environment.
PHIL 310 Introduction to Ethics
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 101 with a "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 120
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course introduces the student to classical and contemporary ethical theories and their application to a variety of contemporary moral issues such as euthanasia, animal rights, torture, and our relationship to the environment.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- define, analyze, and appraise both metaethical issues such as moral relativism and normative theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontological ethics, and consequentialism.
- examine, compare, and evaluate various ethical theories with respect to specific applied ethical issues such as capital punishment and animal rights.
- demonstrate an understanding of, and an ability to properly use, technical language in regard to both metaethical and normative issues.
- identify and analyze the logical structures of moral arguments and their components.
PHIL 320 Logic and Critical Reasoning
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A3
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
Logic and Critical Reasoning provides instruction and practice in effective, purposeful, and rational thinking. The student will learn to identify premises and conclusions in arguments and to identify cogent inductive arguments and valid deductive arguments. Special emphasis is placed on recognizing and overcoming perceptual and cognitive errors and biases that hinder the ability to think critically. The standards of critical thinking and logic will be discussed in terms of their historical development and their cultural impact on society.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- delineate, explain, and use the fundamental structures of logic, including but not limited to argument form, validity, inference, abduction, strength, and soundness.
- demonstrate knowledge of and ability to discern common fallacies of argument and advertising; identify bias and prejudice in premises.
- analyze and evaluate the reliability of various sources of evidence including eyewitnesses, experts, mass media, textbooks, and others.
- using the skills of logic and basic critical thinking, construct a cogent argument, analyze its weak points and produce a counterargument, and defend against the counter.
PHIL 325 Symbolic Logic
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 101 with a grade of "C" or better.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A3
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 210
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course is an introduction to the nature of deductive systems of logic and their application. Students will learn to evaluate argument forms for validity and soundness. This course is recommended for students of the sciences, computer programming, mathematics, and philosophy.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- distinguish an argument from a description, explanation, or report.
- locate, analyze, and evaluate real-world arguments for validity and soundness using English.
- symbolize arguments in the languages of sentential and predicate logic.
- locate, analyze, and evaluate real-world arguments for validity and soundness using a formal language.
- build truth tables for consistency, validity, and equivalence.
PHIL 330 History of Classical Philosophy
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:Eligibility for ENGWR 300
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 130
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course is a study of the origin and development of Western philosophy from the period of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The course is recommended for all philosophy, history, and humanities majors. Credit may be earned for PHIL 330 or PHIL 480 but not for both.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain a pre-Socratic philosopher's metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical views using primary and secondary source material.
- explain and critically interpret Plato's metaphysical, epistemological, or ethical views using primary and secondary source material.
- explain and critically interpret Aristotle's metaphysical, epistemological, or ethical views using primary and secondary source material.
- explain various post-Aristotelian philosophers' views on how to attain solace using primary and secondary source material.
PHIL 331 History of Modern Philosophy
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 101 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 140
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course is a study of the development of Western philosophy from Descartes to Kant. It is recommended for all philosophy, history, and humanities majors. Credit may be earned for PHIL 331 or PHIL 481, but not both.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain the criticisms of scholasticism made by modern philosophers such as Descartes, Locke, and Kant.
- explain key concepts in epistemology and metaphysics such as material and immaterial substance, idea, causality, God, skepticism, space and time, and free will and determinism as presented by Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant.
- explain the main positions and central arguments of three major modern philosophers.
- compare and contrast the positions of any two of the early modern philosophers studied.
PHIL 338 Contemporary Philosophy
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 300 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course addresses contributions to Western Philosophy in the 20th and 21st century. Topic examples include Existentialism, Philosophy of Mind, Philosophy of Language, Feminism, Philosophy of Science, Philosophy of Film, and Environmental Ethics.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate familiarity with and be able to explain major contributions to 20th and 21st century philosophical thought
- explain and critique specific, selected works by thinkers such as De Beauvoir, Wittgenstein, Searle, Kuhn, and Nussbaum
- identify problems and challenges to current areas of inquiry and pose possible solutions or future directions
- demonstrate the ability to analyze, evaluate, and construct cogent arguments and apply them to issues covered in the coursework
PHIL 352 Introduction to World Religions
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course is an introductory survey of selected world religions. Emphasis is on the origins, beliefs, and interpretations of philosophical concepts underlying Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain and distinguish basic terms, beliefs, and concepts of various religions from several different cultures.
- correlate concise definitions of basic terms, beliefs, and concepts with apt quotations from classic texts of the religions studied.
- describe the cultural and historical developments of the religions studied.
- recognize the contributions of several religious traditions to cultural diversity in the United States.
PHIL 368 Law, Justice, and Punishment
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 101 with a "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; CSU Area D8; IGETC Area 3B
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course introduces the student to the historical, cultural, legal, and philosophical development in American culture of (1) abstract principles such as rights, justice, the nature of law, freedom of speech, equal protection of the law, and following precedent; and (2) theoretical issues such as statutory and constitutional interpretation, utilitarian and retributive theories of punishment, and justice as fairness; and (3) practices such as the exclusionary rule, plea bargaining, and the insanity defense.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- identify, expose, evaluate, and discuss arguments and positions presented in legal texts.
- demonstrate familiarity with the content of texts and the capacity to use appropriate legal and philosophical terminology in regard to those cases.
- demonstrate an understanding of the legal theories at work and some of the history contributing to these positions and laws.
- compose cogent essays regarding what we have studied.
- raise interesting philosophical questions in regard to the readings and discussions.
PHIL 480 History of Classical Philosophy - Honors
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:ENGWR 300; Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 130
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course is a study of the origin and development of Western philosophy during the period of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The course is recommended for all philosophy, history, and humanities majors. This honors section uses an intensive instructional methodology designed to challenge motivated students. Credit may be earned for PHIL 330 or PHIL 480 but not for both.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain a pre-Socratic philosopher's metaphysical, epistemological, and if relevant, ethical views using primary and secondary source material.
- explain and critically interpret Plato's metaphysical, epistemological, or ethical views using primary and secondary source material.
- explain and critically interpret Aristotle's metaphysical, epistemological, or ethical views using primary and secondary source material.
- explain various post-Aristotelian philosophers' views on how to attain solace using primary and secondary source material.
PHIL 481 History of Modern Philosophy - Honors
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for the Honors program.
- Advisory:Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C2; IGETC Area 3B
- C-ID:C-ID PHIL 140
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
This course is a study of the development of Western philosophy from Descartes to Kant. It is conducted in a seminar format and uses an intensive instructional methodology that is designed to challenge motivated students. Credit may be earned for PHIL 331 or PHIL 481, but not both.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- explain the criticisms of scholasticism made by modern philosophers such as Descartes, Locke, and Kant.
- explain key concepts in epistemology and metaphysics such as material and immaterial substance, idea, causality, God, skepticism, space and time, and free will and determinism as presented by Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant.
- explain the main positions and central arguments of three major modern philosophers.
- compare and contrast the positions of any two of the early modern philosophers studied.
PHIL 495 Independent Studies in Philosophy
- Units:1 - 3
- Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
An independent studies project involves an individual student or a small group of students who wish to study, research, and/or pursue philosophical topics beyond those covered in regularly offered courses. This course will allow students to study specific topics and gain new perspectives in the discipline. U.C. transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted toward the minimum 60 units required for admission.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- analyze and apply the knowledge, skills, and experience that are offered during the independent study project.
- understand and communicate the relevance of the independent study project to the broader discipline.
PHIL 499 Experimental Offering in Philosophy
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2023
Themes and experimental offerings in Philosophy 11 will encompass topics from the following areas: (a) knowledge and existence, (b) self and mind, (c) philosophy and the arts, (d) norms and politics, (e) philosophy of the East and West, (f) philosophical literature and myths, (g) science and human nature, and (h) specific ideas of individual philosophies. The course may be repeated for credit providing there is no duplication of topics.
Faculty
Andre Jensen
Professor
- Office: SCC Main Campus, Performing Arts Center, PAC 123b
- Email: jensena@scc.losrios.edu
- Phone: (916) 558-2505
James Naify
Adjunct Professor
- Office: SCC Main Campus
- Email: naifyj@scc.losrios.edu
- Phone: (916) 268-3602 ext. 1774
Timothy Quandt
Professor
- Office: SCC Main Campus, Performing Arts Center, PAC 123a
- Email: quandtt@scc.losrios.edu
- Phone: (916) 558-2496
Programs and Majors
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Arts and Communication
This program is part of the Arts and Communication meta major.