PHIL 153 - Arguments about Social Issues

Description:
This course will cultivate critical thinking skills through the examination of arguments about pressing social issues. Examples may include (but are not limited to) freedom of speech, environmental preservation, identity politics, and firearm laws.

Prerequisites:
Prerequisite: students must achieve a C- or higher in Academic Writing I prior to taking Academic Writing II.

Credits: (5)

General Education Category: K1 - Academic Writing II: Reasoning & Research

General Education Pathways: P1 Civic & Community Engagement

Learner Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Accurately analyze arguments contained in prose writing on social issues, identifying their premises and conclusions.
Distinguish between the truth of an argument’s premises and the validity or strength of its reasoning, and evaluate that strength or validity.
Craft a strong argument (one which is adequately supported by evidence) for a position on a complex question concerning a social issue.
Identify and synthesize high-quality sources and use them effectively in support of an argument, and cite and document those sources using the guidelines of a specific style manual.
Craft prose that conforms to academic expectations regarding clarity, coherence, unity, style, and meaning.
Apply research and theory to the problems posed by social issues such as (but not limited to) freedom of speech, environmental preservation, identity politics, and firearm laws.

Learner Outcomes Approval Date:
11/20/2020

Anticipated Course Offering Terms and Locations:
Fall Locations: Ellensburg, Online Winter Locations: Ellensburg, Online Spring Locations: Ellensburg, Online Summer Locations: Online