I. COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course focuses on western philosophy from about 400 B.C.E. to approximately 1300 CE with the emphasis on Greek and Medieval thought. It studies how people understood the universe, the individual, and social, political and ethical life. Through the use of primary and secondary readings, the course explores early philosophical and religious thought.

II. TEXTS

Cahn, Steven, ed. Classics of Western Philosophy. Indianapolis: Hackett, 4th edition, 1995.

Matson, Wallace. A New History of Philosophy: Ancient and Medieval. San Diego: Harcourt, Brace, and Jovanovich, 1987.

Runes, Dagobert, editor. Dictionary of Philosophy. This is not required, but if you have trouble with the course I would recommend you purchasing this or a similar dictionary of philosophy. Our bookstore carries this text or decent bookstores around Austin will carry philosophy dictionaries. RECOMMENDED

III. REQUIREMENTS

A. There will be six scheduled sessions lasting approximately one hour. During these sessions you should be prepared to discuss in depth and detail the assigned readings. You will also be asked to bring to each class what you consider to be the key concepts or ideals involved in that particular assignment. You should be prepared to discuss these concepts and to explain why you think they are key concepts and how they fit into the philosopher's theory. I would take detailed notes over what you read and probably more than one reading will be necessary.

B. You are expected to demonstrate satisfactory progress in the course. You should plan to complete one session every three weeks or less. Take-home exams are due within five days of your receiving the exam. Exams that are more than one week late will be penalized one letter grade and will not be accepted if they are over ten days late.

C. You are expected to keep a reflective journal of your thoughts concerning the readings, audios, videos, and our discussions. Also, include in this journal questions, with answers if possible, you find particularly interesting or relevant. Your journal will be taken up at intervals during the semester and the complete journal should be submitted to the instructor at the sixth meeting.

D. Reading and Viewing Assignments. I would suggest that you do the assignments in the order listed under each session. Assignments from the Cahn will probably require two readings and thus be sure to budget your time accordingly.