PHIL 204

PHIL 204 Life, Death, and Meaning in a Technological Age

PHIL204
200 Level Course
Winter
3 Units
In-person
3
  • Level 2 or above.

None.

one-way Exclusions

Instructor: Abigail Bergeron

It is self-evident that today, technology is deeply embedded in our daily lives. We use digital devices, computers, phones, and the internet, for work, play and information, and we use analog devices, like microwaves and cars, to make our lives, activities and tasks, easier, more efficient, and more comfortable. But what is technology? What does it mean to live in a technological age or a technological society? And what impact do these kinds of technological devices have, to name only a few, on our conception of meaning, mortality, morality, identity, or community? To help us answer some of these questions, we will consider a selection of philosophers and techno-skeptic thinkers, both historical and contemporary, who observe and evaluate the nature and characteristics of our technological way of life. 

Assessments

Assessments

Students should come to this course prepared to challenge their reading comprehension and philosophical writing skills. Assessment will consist of an in-person midterm assignment (25%), an in-person final exam (30%) and a ~3000 word essay on a chosen topic (35% + 10% essay proposal). While there will be no participation marks for this course, course attendance is essential for success. In keeping with the theme of this course, the classroom will be device free, and in lieu of screens or online activities, vigorous in-class discussion and debate will be encouraged.