Video games such as "The Legend of Zelda," "The Walking Dead" and "Bioshock Infinite" are popular pastimes for many young people. Learn how these games influence thoughts, morals and decision-making in a weeklong day camp offered this summer at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
"Video Games and Philosophy" is set for 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, Aug. 7-11, offering junior and high school age students opportunities to both play and think critically about popular video games.
Campers will develop argumentative, rhetorical and logical skills to become better at written and oral communication, all while engaging in fun exercises, video game activities and the latest virtual reality technology. Students will learn from UW-Stevens Point Assistant Professor Joshua Horn of the Philosophy Department as well as advanced university students.
Discussion topics will include:
1. What does it mean to be a good person? Explore The Walking Dead.
2. Is the world the way that we perceive it to be? Explore Fez.
3. Do we have free will? Explore The Stanley Parable.
4. What kinds of actions are permitted in times of war? Explore Battlefield and Call of Duty.
5. What is the difference between virtues and vices? Explore The Legend of Zelda.
6. What is the effect of violent video games? Explore Grand Theft Auto.
7. Do we have moral obligations to other people? Explore Journey.
8. What does it mean for something to be possible? Explore Bioshock Infinite.
Campers may choose to participate for the full day all week, which includes lunch, for $135. There are also the options of attending either all the mornings or all the afternoons for $75.
For more information, visit www.uwsp.edu/philosophy/Pages/Video-Games-and-Philosophy-Camp.aspx or contact Horn at 715-346-2849 or Joshua.Horn@uwsp.edu.
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