Philosophy

All students attending class on the FIT campus must show proof of vaccination against COVID-19. For more information, see: Immunization Requirements.

Students are encouraged to register early, as classes may fill up or be canceled due to low registration.

Winter Courses
Jan 3 - Jan 19

Spring Courses
Jan 24 - May 18

Questions about course content? Contact:
Social Sciences - (212) 217-4920

PL 143
Introduction to Asian Philosophies
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1,983.00

Introduces the major philosophies of the Asian world that underlie and shape Eastern cultures. Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism are emphasized. (G7: Humanities; G9: Other World Civilizations)

PL 211
Informal Logic: A Guide to Clear Thinking
3.0 credits
In state $660.00 Out of state $1,983.00
Online In state $705.00 Out of state $2,228.00

Introduction to practical techniques for evaluating, criticizing, and defending arguments using ordinary English. Both deductive and inductive reasoning are considered, and how to recognize fallacies is emphasized. Stresses techniques for producing good arguments of many types. (G7: Humanities)

PL 300
Business Ethics
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2,712.00

This course introduces students to basic ethical principles and concepts used to evaluate business practices. Students will learn about the purpose of a corporation, the significance of accountability and transparency in business, the idea of corporate social responsibility, the consequences of globalization, the impact of corporations on the environment, and job discrimination. (G7: Humanities)

PL 301
Anxiety and Fear: Introduction to Existentialism
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2,712.00

This course is an introduction to the philosophy of existentialism. The core principles of existentialism will be examined using the works of Martin Heidegger, Soren Kierkegaard, Hannah Arendt, Jean Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Frantz Fanon, and Albert Camus, among others.

PL 321
Philosophy of Art
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2,712.00

Prerequisite: one semester of History of Art and Civilization
Considers the philosophy of art and the logical structure of criticism. Presents a group of problems arising from description, interpretation, and evaluation of aesthetic objects, with special emphasis on the visual arts. (G7: Humanities)

PL 391
Ancient Greek Philosophy (Honors)
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2,712.00

Prerequisite: qualification for Presidential Scholars Program, or 3.5 GPA with approval of dean for Liberal Arts
A study of the origins and development of philosophy in the West, from Homer and Hesiod to the Hellenistic period. Contributions of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle are emphasized, and the Greek influence on Roman and Christian philosophy is examined. (G5: Western Civilization; G7: Humanities)

PL 431
Philosophy: Ethics
3.0 credits
In state $897.00 Out of state $2,712.00
Online: In state $942.00 Out of state $2,757.00

An introduction to philosophy in general and to ethics in particular. Philosophy is presented as an ongoing activity with emphasis on providing students with logical and conceptual tools for dealing with real-world situations. The course is oriented toward the development of the student’s ability to use reason to evaluate arguments, particularly ethical arguments. (G7: Humanities)