FS 016 PZ -What is Human?

Institution: Pitzer

Description: This course serves two purposes. First, it raises questions about our understanding of ourselves as Homo sapiens, distinct from other animals, machines and biological creations. Second, it emphasizes analytical reading and writing skills. The determination of what is particularly or distinctively “human” is a problem for the contemporary world and at present has no definitive or consensual answer. We will explore how peoples in other era defined themselves and how those distinctions are being blurred by modern technology and biological research. Do computers have consciousness? Do clones have souls? DO we think with our heart? Do we have obligations to others? How do we determine human nature? Or, does man have a nature? Readings will range from works in philosophy to science fiction. (Instructor: Sharon Snowiss)

Prerequisite(s): None

First-Year seminars are not listed on the course schedule. Incoming students will be assigned to a first-year seminar and registered automatically.