Mortality, mind and the meaning of life

Course Description

This seminar explores some of the oldest, most profound, and most fascinating philosophical and religious questions that human beings have pondered.  We focus on three main themes:  Mortality:  What is death? Is it a purely physical event? Is death nothing more than cessation of brain activity? Is death a separation of soul and body? Do you survive your physical death by being resurrected or reincarnated?  Mind: What is mind? Is it a spirit or soul? Can it exist apart from your body? Is your mind something purely physical such as the brain?  Meaning of Life: Is there a meaning or purpose to human life? Is it ultimately devoid of any purpose or meaning? Do we ourselves create whatever meaning or purpose our lives may have? Does human life have a meaning or purpose that we ourselves do not create?

Interdisciplinary Concentration Preference Form

Some First Seminar courses are linked to particular Interdisciplinary Concentrations. If you would like to be enrolled in one that counts toward a concentration click on the link above and complete the preference form.     

Download First Seminar Selection Worksheet

Students will enroll in First Seminar Sections during the Orientation sessions, June 26-30. All students should complete this worksheet and select 3 seminars according to their interests, bearing in mind that there is no guarantee that any particular section will be open and available. However, every effort will be made to ensure that the selection process is fair and equitable.