PHILOSOPHY OF THE HUMAN PERSON(HONORS)
SYLLABUS
FALL 2005
INSTRUCTOR: DR. STEPHEN J. LAUMAKIS
OFFICE: 207 MAGNUS/ROACH
OFFICE HOURS: 9:30-10:30 MWF & BY APPOINTMENT
PHONE: 962-5363
COURSE DESCRIPTION/GOALS:
As an introduction to philosophy, the course will focus on the fundamental
conceptions of the nature of the human person in ancient, medieval, modern,
and contemporary philosophy. It will also include the development of basic
logical and critical thinking skills. Finally, it will provide a background
for future reflections on the way we ought to live our lives--the subject
matter of Ethics--Phil. 214.
The aim of the course is to introduce you to philosophy by presenting
the questions and answers that philosophers think about with respect to
the nature of the human person. It is expected by the end of the semester
that you know something of the thought of several major philosophers and
be able to articulate coherently your own understanding of the nature of
the human person.
REQUIRED TEXTS:
BERKELEY, A TREATISE CONCERNING THE PRINCIPLES OF HUMAN KNOW.
BIFFLE, A GUIDED TOUR OF RENE DESCARTES' MEDITATIONS
LUCRETIUS, ON THE NATURE OF THE UNIVERSE
PLATO, FIVE DIALOGUES
SEARLE, MINDS, BRAINS, AND SCIENCE
WESTON, A RULEBOOK FOR ARGUMENTS
DIVERSITY READINGS--PACKET FROM UST BOOKSTORE
SELECTED HANDOUTS
ASSIGNMENTS:
Since this is a basic, introductory course emphasizing the understanding
of elementary ideas, you are asked to concentrate on learning these fundamental
philosophical notions. Reading of assigned texts is a MUST in order to introduce
you to the subject matter, facilitate class discussion and participation,
pose distressing questions, and just plain make you think. There will be
2 SHORT PAPERS (2-3 typed pages in length and NOT MORE THAN 4 TYPED PAGES)
on pre-assigned readings. One paper will be presented to the class along
with a 1 page summary/outline for the other members of the class. There
will also be 2 EXAMS--a Mid-Term Exam and a Final Exam at the end of the
semester.
ATTENDANCE POLICY:
Attendance is expected. Excessive absence may result in grade reduction.
Turn off your cell phones!
GRADE DISTRIBUTION:
Participation= Paper #1= Paper #2= Mid-Term= Final=