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PHI 2013—Introduction to Philosophy |
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Course Objectives
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To think logically and critically Develop an appreciation and grasp of philosophical methods, issues, and traditions Cultivate analytical, critical, interpretive, and evaluative abilities in thinking about a variety of kinds of problems. Identify logical forms Identify formal fallacies Identify informal fallacies Identify classical problems in metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics Analyze contemporary problems in metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics Translate concepts into current philosophical dialogues Analyze complex problems by identifying and evaluating the components of philosophical problems Analyze dialectical process of argument Analyze arguments from hypothesis To speak and write effectively Identify a subject and formulate a thesis statement Organize ideas to defend a thesis Write in a unified and coherent manner appropriate to the subject Use appropriate sentence structure and vocabulary Document references and citations according to an accepted style manual To appreciate the complexity and diversity of world cultures Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary social, economic, and political forces Incorporate diverse cultural perspectives into ethical decision-making Critically evaluate central concepts in the philosophy of religion Develop the vocabulary of comparative religion Demonstrate grasp of theories of religious and theological dilemmas Develop the ability to refine analyses, develop and advance or criticize interpretations, explore alternative perspectives Grasp the historical, cultural, linguistic, and traditional contributions to matters of religion and faith To understand the physical universe Evaluate the evolution of scientific reasoning from Aristotle through Einstein and beyond Understand the major tenets in philosophy of science Distinguish between empirical and theoretical scientific models Understand the role of scientific discovery on philosophical inquiry, and vice versa. To participate as a concerned, intelligent citizen Recognize ethical issues Identify ethical issues Identify theoretical ethical frameworks Apply ethical frameworks to ethical issues To acquire mastery of a particular field of study Identify the process of determining first principles Recognize the interrelation of fields of study - Develop the ability to refine analyses, develop and advance or criticize interpretations, explore alternative perspectives
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Course Description
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Everyone does philosophy. Some do it well. Others do it poorly. However, whether or not one will do philosophy is not an option. Simply put, everyone does philosophy. Philosophy addresses the big questions – what does it mean to be human, what does it mean to be good or to live a good life, what is happiness and how do we know? Philosophy involves self-reflection – who am I, what is my role in the universe, do I matter? A goodly portion of the philosophic mindset is a simple curiousity – the questioning, the asking “Why?” We address these questions and many others – nature of reality, existence of God, etc. – by entering into conversation with great philosophers of the past, with colleagues in the course, and with popular culture. In these conversations, our fundamental assumptions become clearer, our ability to analyze and think critically about ourselves, our communities, and our world becomes sharper, and our perspective on all these matters can become both broader and deeper. Prerequisite: ENG 1473 or ENG 1803 with a C or better. |
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Required Texts |
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Footnotes to Plato A Philosophical Life: The Collected Essays of William C. Gentry, Gentry/Durand Durand, Virtue: Essays in Ancient Philosophy |
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Course Requirements |
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Exam 1 - 20% Exam 2 - 20% Exam 3 - 20% Final Exam - 20% Each of the exams consists in sections of Matching, Multiple Choice, Short Answer (Fill-In-The-Blank), True/False, and essays. The Final Exam is comprehensive. Attendance/Quizzes - 20% |
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Attendance and Make-up Policy Students are expected to attend every class session. It is quite important that students are present on Exam days. The Final Exam cannot be made up. Exams 1and 2 can be made up at the discretion of the instructor after consultation with the student. Quite extraordinary circumstances are required for a make up of the first two Exams.
Late Work Policy There is no extra credit offered. Late work is not accepted.
Reasonable Writing Proficiency It is generally presumed that students in Introduction to Philosophy (a Sophomore level class) have developed the ability to write proficiently. Students are encouraged to visit the Writing Center in McBrien Hall for assistance with writing.
Reasonable Accommodation Policy for Students Please note that Henderson State University has a policy of accommodating students with disabilities. If you have a problem that may prevent you from fully demonstrating you abilities, you should let me know as soon as possible.
Academic Misconduct Cheating on tests and plagiarizing from books or other students are the most serious instances of academic misconduct. Such behavior is very unethical. In addition, University policy penalizes it severely. Plagiarism and cheating will result in no less than a grade of "F" for the assignment. Potential consequences of plagiarism include being dropped from the course with a grade of "F" and/or being subject to proceedings that conclude in suspension from the University.
Cell Phone/Pager Policy The ringing of cell phones and pagers is extremely disruptive to class activity. For this reason, cell phones and pagers are to be TURNED OFF before class begins. A 10 point penalty will be assessed for violations of this policy. Additionally, students whose cell phones disrupt class will be asked to leave for the day.
Other Salient Information: Instructor: Dr. Kevin K. Durand |