PHIL 395 Philosophy Seminar

Topics vary semester to semester. Students may repeat this course once for credit with a different topic.

Love in Personal and Political Life

In this course, we will explore the nature and significance of love by drawing on philosophical work, literature, film, and presentations by guest professors from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The course will address the following questions: What is love? What role does love play in good personal relationships, for example, in romantic relationships or the relationship between friends? Is love an important part of being a morally good person? Does it play an important role in creating or maintaining a just society? We will also consider the connection between love and related attitudes, such as forgiveness and the disposition to see the best in people. As we explore these topics, we will be especially concerned with love as a response to people’s shortcomings and wrongdoing.