PHIL 206Philosophy of Sport

Sport, like philosophy, is the source of constant and passionate debate. This course brings the two subjects together. Through reading, writing, and small group discussion of texts from a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy, sociology, and popular sports journalism, students will use the tools and concepts of philosophy to explore important questions about sport, such as: What is sport? What is the value of sport for participants or fans? Are violent sports unethical? Should performance enhancing drugs be banned? Why are most sports segregated by gender, and should they be? Students will develop their ability to understand and evaluate philosophical and ethical concepts and arguments that relate to sports and build the critical thinking and communication skills required to advance their own arguments and perspectives.