Philosophy 201 Introduction to Philosophy
Course Description: This course will introduce students to philosophy
through a discussion of the following issues: The existence of God, the possibility
and nature of knowledge, the mind/body problem, free will and determinism,
artificial intelligence, and the meaning of life. We will consider these issues
within the context of the shift in the concept of causality that gave birth to
modern science. The objective of the course is to help the students become
familiar with basic philosophical concepts, develop their appreciation of the
implications of philosophical issues for other disciplines and our everyday
lives, while sharpening their reasoning skills.
Texts: 1. Louis P. Pojman. Introduction
to Philosophy: Classical and Contemporary
2. Reading Packet (available in the Humanities Division
Office, Phil-Science 101)
Grading: Attendance and
Class Participation 10%
Short
Daily Quizzes 10%
Exams and
Regular Quizzes 60%
Writing
Assignments 20%
A 93-100
A- 90-92
B+ 87-89
B 83-86
B- 80-82
C+ 77-79
C 73-76
C- 70-72
D+ 67-69
D 60-66
F 0-60
1. Exams and Regular
Quizzes: There will be an in class midterm
and final exam and multiple regular quizzes. These will include short answer,
long answer, and essay questions. Exams and quizzes will be taken in the
classroom, and in accordance with the guidelines of the honor code. I will only
allow each student to make up the midterm or a quiz. You must have a valid
excuse and make it up before the next session of class. Contact me as early as possible to make arrangements.
2. Writing
Assignments: This will include a five-page
paper as well as shorter assignments. Students who have difficulties with
grammar or essay-writing should work with the tutors in the
3. Class Participation
and Daily Quizzes: Most of our class time
will be spent in discussion, and each student’s participation is encouraged and
expected. Informed participation requires a careful reading of assigned texts ahead
of class. In order to encourage this, a short
quiz on the reading assignment will be given at the beginning of every class
except for test days. No make-ups will be allowed.
4. Attendance: Prompt and consistent attendance is expected, and
is in your own interest because poor attendance and tardies
will inevitably affect your other grades. Also, I weigh attendance heavily when
giving final grades in borderline cases. Excessive absences will reduce your
grade: To receive an ‘A’, you must have less than 4 absences, for a ‘B’ less
than 8, and for a ‘C’ less than 12. Tardies and
leaving early will be counted toward your absences. I will accept valid reasons
for missing class (e.g., a doctor’s note for a serious illness), but will only
excuse one half of the absence. If you miss a class, I recommend that you make
arrangements to copy the notes of another student.