Mcanulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Duquesne University

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Basic Philosophical Questions

Prof. Lanei M. Rodemeyer

Spring 2018

UCOR 132-14 Office: College Hall rm 326

TR 9:25-10:40am Contact: 396-6497/

Fisher Hall rm 611 Ofc Hours: TBA

This class will be an opportunity to discuss, and delve more deeply into, several of the questions that lurk behind our everyday existence. Other than two primary texts, readings will be selected based upon student interest and inquiry, and the goal of our discussions will be to grasp multiple perspectives upon the topics chosen for the course. We will address these texts in light of current issues, but we will also consider them with regard to understanding the details of the arguments and positions presented by their authors. Thus students will develop their ability to understand complex concepts and arguments in written works, and to describe, analyze, and critique them both verbally and in writing. We will also work on formulating our own questions, following through on our responses, and providing reasoning and evidence for coherent positions. In doing so, students will hone their critical thinking and writing skills with regard to exegesis, analysis, and argumentation.

Graded assignments will include one mid-term exam, a final exam, at least three short papers, possible in-class and other short assignments, possible quizzes, and participation.

Texts and Assigned Readings:

Plato, Symposium (Hackett)

Descartes, Meditations on First Philosophy (Hackett)

Other texts TBD