Syllabus
Introduction to Philosophy
(Philosophy
1010-002)
University of
Nebraska – Omaha
Instructor: Edward Abplanalp
E-mail: philosophered@cox.net
Office: ASH 205B
Office Hours: Thursday 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Text: Beginning Philosophy, by Richard Double (Oxford University Press)
Course Description: This is an introductory course in Western Philosophy. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to philosophical questions, arguments, and thinking. We will examine philosophy in reference to the some of the major historical and contemporary contributions philosophers provided us with understanding the fundamental questions concerning the nature and value of philosophy, including metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics. We will evaluate and critique these fundamental questions respectively: What is philosophy? What is knowledge? What can I know, and what are the limits of knowledge? Is the external world really the way it appears? What am I? What is consciousness, and how does the mind relate to the body? What is ethics? How should I live my life? Are there definite right or wrong actions? Are events in the universe determined? Do I freely choose my actions? Does God exist? Does evil exist, and why would God allow evil to exist?
Course Objectives: This
class will (1) promote an understanding of some of the major issues in Western
philosophy, (2) help students understand and think critically about
philosophical arguments, and (3) facilitate the development of the student’s
own philosophical positions. Students will learn and demonstrate these specific
skills:
· Identify and define the major concepts in philosophy.
· Identify the major theories and the arguments supporting them.
· Be able to critically evaluate the arguments for and against
particular philosophical theories.
· Learn to appreciate the complexity and fruitfulness of philosophical inquiry.
Assignments:
· There will be two take-home examinations/writing assignments. These exams will require a substantial amount of time and effort. Besides containing short answer questions, these examinations will require you to write a 5-7 page essay on the topics discussed in class.
· There will be three in-class examinations. These examinations are composed of definitions, true/false, and short essay questions. More specific information regarding the questions asked on the in-class exams will be provided as the time of the exams nears. Materials asked on each exam are discussed thoroughly in class lectures.
● There is no extra credit.
Grades:
Exam 1: 20%
Exam 2: 20%
Exam 3 20%
Exam 4: 20%
Exam 5: 20%
Final grades are assessed on the following point scale:
97-100 A+
93-96 A
90-92 A-
87-89
B+
83-86
B
80-82 B-
70-72 C-
67-69 D+
63-66 D
60-62 D-
Student Responsibilities:
· Honor Code: Students must uphold the Student Code Of Conduct published in the University of Nebraska College Catalog. I will recognize and enforce the guidelines to its fullest extent. There are no exceptions to these guidelines. All work submitted for this class is expected to be your own original work. Any idea that is not your own must be documented (i.e. the source must be cited). Any cheating or plagiarizing will result in an F.
· Late policy: All late work and absences for examinations must be accompanied by written documentation. If late work is accepted, it will be grated harder than work submitted on time.
·
Attendance: Students are expected to attend all
of their classes. Moreover, students should read the assigned readings before
class, come prepared ask questions, and engage in productive class discussions. Students who are unable to attend class are
expected to bear the burden of understanding the material on their own.
Tentative Schedule
Spring Break (No Class)