HCRT-375: The Philosophy of Isolation

How do we handle forced isolation? If you're like me, you've often experienced profound loneliness in life and occasionally chosen solitude as an antidote to difficult thoughts. Through readings, discussion, and a series of small art projects, this course will explore a long history of philosophy that addresses the solitary life. We'll look at related art, film, music, and literature. We'll discuss religious rites, the impact of social media on our psyches, and radical philosophical ideas like Panopticism and Solipsism. Classes will be experimental and improvisational, and you should be prepared to be vulnerable and speak from your own experience. If things go as planned, we will transform our solitude into art and emerge stronger together.