PHIL-122 Infinity

An introduction to philosophy by way of the infinite. We’ll look at the puzzles and challenges raised for our understanding of ourselves and the world by examining various views about infinity, from Zeno’s paradoxes and Aristotle’s actual/potential distinction; through the medieval concept of syncategorematicity, and Galileo’s paradox; to Cantor’s transfinites and the foundations of mathematics. We’ll read works of fiction as well as more traditional philosophy. No particular mathematical background will be assumed, but we will do some basic set theory.

Maximum Enrollment

Writing-Intensive (18)

(First Year Course, Writing Intensive.)

Credits

1

Offered

Fall

Notes

Taught in alternating years.