COURSE OBJECTIVES

What does it mean to be human? What (if anything) separates us from other animals? What is the meaning (are the meanings) (if any) of human existence? One feature that appears to be uniquely human is our ability to ask these questions. In this course, we will pursue this question philosophically through the careful study and discussion of texts and figures that have grappled with these questions.

It is hoped that by studying these works, which articulate fundamental options in understanding human nature, we will deepen our own understandings of this great mystery about who we are.

TEXTS

EVALUATION

20% Reflection Papers/Participation

25% Mid-Term Exam #1

25% Mid-Term Exam #2

30% Final Exam

100% Total

EXAMS

There will be three exams, including two mid-term exams (worth 25% each) and a final exam. Perhaps unexpectedly this class will be a little bit like a mathematics class, at least insofar as the texts and issues we study earlier in the semester provide the basis for the topics we will study later. As such, each exam – in a sense – cumulative in that each exam will ask you to bring the most recent texts into dialogue with the earlier texts.

REFLECTION PAPERS/PARTICIPATION

There will be 11 reflection papers, 10 of which will be counted toward your grade. Reflection papers serve two purposes: They serve as a means for you to concretely reflect on the material and the topic. They enhance the quality of classroom discussion. Given the second goal, you need to begin working on your reflection paper and make your best effort at answering the questions (available on the web page) when you start reading the material. You should bring your draft of your paper to each class to use as the basis for your contribution to the discussion. You should also be prepared to modify your paper in light of our classroom discussions. Your modified reflection paper is due in class on the day specified on the schedule. It should be typed and double-spaced so that I can read it and have room to make comments.

You will be graded on your reflection papers. One grade may be dropped. You will not receive credit for any reflection paper for which you miss or do not substantially contribute to the in-class discussion. Thus, your reflection paper grade and your class-participation grade are tied closely together.

The reason for this policy is that philosophical investigation is a collaborative and communal endeavor that requires the full commitment of all involved. Therefore, by agreeing to pursue this course of study, you are making a commitment to your fellow students, to me, and to yourself, to be fully present and prepared to discuss, dispute, contribute, and collaborate.
 
 
 
 

OTHER EXPECTATIONS

Students are expected to prepare their reading assignments. The reflection paper questions will be available well before we start each reading and are designed to aid in your comprehension of and engagement with the material. As a result of studying the texts and working on your reflection papers, you should be able to come to class prepared to discuss the texts assigned.

Students who miss an exam or reflection paper deadline will only be permitted to make up such assignments for very serious reasons. If possible, the student should inform me by telephone beforehand if such an assignment will be missed. It is the responsibility of the student to meet with me to determine if and when missed work should be made-up. This is best done during office hours or by telephoning or by e-mail, and not before class.

Students are reminded that, according to University policy, missing more than two weeks’ worth of class (six class meetings) warrants dismissal from the course.

Students are also reminded that plagiarism is contrary to the rules of the University and that serious penalties will be imposed for such misconduct. It is the responsibility of the student to know what plagiarism is.

If you have any questions about this syllabus, the mechanics of the course, or anything else I can help you with, please feel free to contact me. Email is probably the most efficient means, but you are also welcome to call. Be sure to check the web page often for updates and reflection paper topics.

In general, if you have any issues with the course, the material, or would just like to discuss philosophy, please feel free to drop by my office. I’m there much of the time and my door is (almost) always open! I look forward to meeting all of you and exploring the philosophical implications of human nature together.

COURSE SCHEDULE