Philosophy
8 courses · Porterville College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
PHIL P106 Introduction to Philosophy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- PHIL 100
An overview of the central issues and movements in philosophy. Epistemology (the study of knowledge), metaphysics (the study of reality), ethics (the study of morality), philosophy of religion, and political philosophy are typically covered. Approved for pass/no pass grading option.
PHIL P107 Logic & Argumentative Writing
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Prerequisite
- ENGL C1000, ENGL C1000E, ENGL C1000H, or equivalent with a "C" or better.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- PHIL 110
This course will delve into logic and critical analysis through writing. Topics to be covered include the principles of valid reasoning with emphasis on deductive logic and the study of formal techniques of sentential logic. The course may also include a treatment of inductive reasoning, language and fallacies. Throughout a strong emphasis is placed on instruction in writing which models the critical thinking and logical skills examined in the course. Students are required to write a minimum of 5000 words. Approved for pass/no pass grading option.
PHIL P108 Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture hours: 54
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to philosophical thinking about important issues in religion. The emphasis of the course is upon an analytic approach to the concepts and belief systems of religion, religious experience, and the various uses of religious language. Readings will focus on both classical and contemporary religious and philosophical thinkers.
PHIL P109 Existence and Reality
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to the problems of metaphysics (the study of reality and existence) and epistemology (the study of knowledge). Surveys major philosophical problems typically including the existence of God, freedom versus determinism, the mind/body problem, problems of knowledge, and appearance versus reality.
PHIL P110 Introduction to Ethics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- PHIL 120
Examination of the philosophical approach to morality. Study of the meaning of ethics and morality and methods used in ethical theorizing and reasoning. Emphasizes major ethical issues and theories. Instructs how to set up an ethical system. Approved for pass/no pass grading option.
PHIL P112 The Ethics of Living & Dying
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A philosophical yet practical approach to some of the major medical-ethical problems facing human beings today, such as, what patients should be told, the nature and importance of informed consent, the meaning and criteria for living, dying, and death including caring for the dying and allowing to die, mercy death, and mercy killing. Permeating these problems will be a study of the basis for ethical relationships among human beings through a study of what morality is, consequentialist and non-sequentialist theories of morality, and how to set up an ethical system. Special emphasis will be placed on the relationship of professional and the well to the sick, dying and bereaved. Approved for pass/no pass grading option.
PHIL P113 Introduction to the World's Religions
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A survey of three Western religions –Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and two Eastern religions – Hinduism and Buddhism. Examines each religion’s history, sacred scriptures, geographic dispersion, primary theological concepts and spiritual practices, and contemporary role. Emphasis on understanding the distinct belief and practice of an individual in each of these religious traditions. Course is also offered online.
PHIL P114 History of Ancient Philosophy
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Total lecture 54 hours
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- PHIL 130
This course addresses ancient philosophy with emphasis on the development of Greek philosophy from the Pre-Socratics through Aristotle and may also include Hellenistic, Roman, medieval or non-western thinkers. This course is approved for pass/no pass grading option.