LAS 800 - Ways of Knowing

Credit(s): 6
In the academy, each discipline operates within its own independent realm; however, this seminar seeks to analyze and synthesize the interrelatedness of the epistemological underpinnings of the liberal arts. Since the dawn of history, the major enterprise undertaken by human beings has been to know themselves in relation to the surrounding world. Sometimes this was for pragmatic reasons such as the building of societies, the improvement of living conditions, scientific invention, commerce and/or conquest. At other times it was to understand, religiously, psychologically, and philosophically, their place in the world and the universe at large. This course will explore humankind’s quest for the ways of knowing that have emerged from this great journey. Utilizing a historical perspective, this course will explore the interplay of the various liberal arts disciplines as they have merged and shaped our modern worldview. A Life Arts Project is required.