"Graphic Minds: Using Comics to Unpack Philosophical Ideas": In ancient times, stories of gods and heroes helped people understand the world around them. While modern society may no longer believe in these myths, we still crave stories that make sense of our lives. Today, those stories are told through superheroes in capes and masks. This course is a deep dive into philosophy, using comic books as a powerful lens to explore timeless questions.
We will discuss a range of traditional philosophical questions such as:
- Why is the world the way it is?
- What is the role of power in morality?
- If the world is strange, then how can it be known?
- What is a person?
- Why should we care what a person is?
- What duties do we owe to others?
Students will explore philosophical concepts in depth, develop critical thinking skills, and learn how to analyze media with a sharp, philosophical eye—looking beyond the surface to uncover deeper meanings. Finally, they will learn how to combine these skill sets by interpreting hero narratives philosophically.
LUNCH: Students staying for full day or for both morning and afternoon sessions can bring or buy their lunch. All students will eat lunch on Campus in The Commons, a small food court.