Danney Ursery
A-PHIL 1301, Introduction to Philosophy
Fall 2006, September 5 - December 5
Every two weeks
I am wisest because I realize I have no wisdom
— Socrates as reported by Plato
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Danney Ursery
I am wisest because I realize I have no wisdom — Socrates as reported by Plato
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I. Course Description
An introduction to both western and non-western topics which cover the major theories of reality, knowledge, and values by surveying the ideas and thinkers from primarily the Western traditional but also from Asian and African philosophy, as well as the voices of women philosophers. The course offers a multicultural outlook which provides both a global perspective and a cross-cultural worldview.
II. Course Objectives
A. Demonstrate knowledge of and terminology in the philosophical areas of Ethics, Epistemology, Metaphysics, Theology, and Social and Political philosophy.
B. Identify and discuss particular philosophical themes that emerge in western philosophy and how these themes relate or connect to non-western philosophical views.
C. Demonstrate knowledge of some of the major philosophical ideas found in our intellectual tradition: reality, truth, meaning, nature, god, value, human rights, and so forth.
D. Demonstrate the ability to analyze philosophical material and to synthesize that material into a clear and understandable essay through the use of philosophical thinking and writing.
III. Texts
IV. Course Requirements
A. This class every other week from September 12 through December 5. Our sessions
will consist of us clearing up any problems in your understanding the material,
clarification of terminology used and the ideas expressed, and the instructor
probing to assess the level of your competency. The best way to learn philosophy is to "do" philosophy;
that is, to talk about it. As such, your active participation is required. Your participation grade will be based on
how prepared you are for our class and to a lesser extent, how much you participate in class. If you must miss one class
there will be an alternative assignment which must be completed if you want your absence to
disappear, otherwise your final grade will be penalized five points per absence; arriving late for class two times counts as one absence. Only one absence can be made up.
B. There will be two take-chome examinations. In grading the essay part of the exams I look for five things: (1) specific illustrative examples from the text, (2) correct use of technical terminology, (3) coherent expression of basic lines of reasoning, (4) explanation of all important claims, and (5) detail sufficient to indicate familiarity with the entire relevant reading. The other 50% will be either true/false, multiple choice, or short answer and will be completed in the instructor's office or classroom at the time you receive the essay part.
C. Short assignments will be due throughout the semester. We will discuss the options the first day of class. Bring your ideas.
D. A short 4 to 5 page paper over either a philosopher or a philosophical position is required. Your paper will require three sources: an original work by a philosopher and at least two secondary sources on the author or position.
V. Assignments
As you read I would highly recommend you take notes around themes, ideas, concepts,
etc. Philosophy requires thinking so waiting until the night before
to complete your readings and assignments is not recommended.
I also encourage you to write down items you do not understand and to bring
those to class so we can discuss them. See Tips for Understanding Philosophy above.
VI. Evaluation
Participation Grade - 15%
Examination - 50% (each exam counts 20%)
Paper - 20%
Writing Assignments - 15%
A. Grades are based on the following: A = Excellent work, B = Good work, C = Average work, D = Fair work, and a grade of F will be given if you do not complete the course or if you do failing work. If you decide not to complete the course it is your responsibility to withdraw by the deadline, but, if possible, lets talk about it first.
B. Session grades are based on how prepared you are when we meet to discuss the readings and class attendance. You should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the themes, concepts, and terminology discussed in the readings. Some awareness of the questions asked in both books will also be helpful. We meet in order to see that you have read and studied all the assigned material and that you are generally clear about what you read. Failure to attend the scheduled session or lack of preparation will result in a failing or poor grade being given for that particular session.
C. Incompletes are seldom given and then only if there are extenuating circumstances (having taken too many classes or not having paced yourself in the course does not count as extenuating) and you have satisfactorily completed five of the classes and have a "C" or better on the first two examinations. The instructor expects you to keep up with the assignments and to complete the course within the allocated time period. If you feel your situation would warrant an "I" we can discuss it further. If an "I" is granted, you will have an additional six weeks to complete the course.
D. If you are having difficulty with either the reading or the exams please
do not hesitate to contact me.
Professor Information
Philosophy Offerings
Philosophy Sites
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