Philosophy 350SE - Topics in Philosophy: 'Philosophy and Science of Emotion'

Phil. and Science of Emotion

Spring
2021
01
4.00
Laura Sizer
M 02:30PM-03:45PM;TTH 02:15PM-04:00PM;WF 03:00PM-04:00PM
Mount Holyoke College
113683
lsizer@mtholyoke.edu
113683,113341
This course is an interdisciplinary investigation of the nature of emotions and their influences on our thoughts and actions. While we will draw from a variety of disciplines, the nature and motivations of the inquiry are philosophical. We will consider: what are emotions? Are they bodily responses? Thoughts? Feelings? What roles do cultures play in shaping our emotions? What functions do emotions serve? We will examine evidence and arguments offered by philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, anthropology and evolutionary theory, and consider how these perspectives do or don't inform each other, as well as how they can help us understand the nature of emotions.
Prereq: 8 credits in Philosophy or Neuroscience and Behavior, or 4 credits in each.
Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.