Courses

HONS-100 Thought

A study of ideas and their expression, this course examines how we learn, what constitutes serious thought within various disciplines, and how we distinguish knowledge from either opinion or belief. Through analysis of traditional and contemporary paradigms of thought and by individual practice, students investigate how hypotheses are formed, how assertions are made, and how thinkers arrive at coherent statements.

HONS-200 Thought and Civilization

An introduction to Western thought, emphasizing how thinkers resist or assimilate tradition. Philosophical, historical, religious and literary texts and other forms of art are examined in the light of unifying themes.

HONS-240 Thought and Social Diversity

An introduction to the social sciences in the context of an issue of substantial concern to individuals and society. Each year an issue is identified, and its historical, psychological, social, political, economic and/or ethical elements are explored. Students are introduced to the concepts and methods of the social sciences, read primary sources within several disciplines, and learn in a highly participatory classroom environment.

HONS-250 Thought and the Natural Sciences

A history and philosophy of science course with a laboratory, focusing on science as a human activity. Through an examination of methods, explanations, limitations, and applications of science, the student is given sufficient background to be able to recognize attributes of true science, pseudoscience, and technology. In addition, the course introduces the student to the complexity of ethical, political, and sociological issues which are the products of science and technology. Although examples from biology, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences, and physics are used to illustrate the nature of science and how it changes, this course is not designed as an introduction to those disciplines. Rather, it is a general science course which attempts to demonstrate some trends in science and how a scientist works.

HONS-340 Medieval People and Culture

An interdisciplinary study of the historical and literary figures of the Middle Ages. Although the content will vary from semester to semester, this course is designed to provide substantial first-hand knowledge of major works of the period, as well as an introduction to the historical and cultural contexts in which they were written.

HONS-363 Contemporary Art

Critical issues in art from 1950 to the present, defined by radical changes in values for the art market, art criticism, and public taste. Lively presentations by students will support or contest recent art criticism, involving them in both analysis and debate. Students will visit avant-garde galleries in New York.

HONS-400 Honors Colloquium

This course serves as the capstone for the University Honors Program. Students will be asked to reflect on their experience as a Susquehanna University scholar and create their own legacy to the Honors Program. Students are expected to explore their futures as Susquehanna University alumni, both on an intellectual and personal level. The Honors Colloquium course highlights our students' work and contributions to the Susquehanna University community. Students are expected to share scholarly expertise, engage in critical thinking, and conduct a project that impacts the Susquehanna University campus community in a way that is both positive and uniquely reflective of the Honors Program.