Department of Philosophy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Fall Term 2005
MWF 9-9:50, 105 Caldwell Hall
David M. Miller
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Great Works is an introduction to the content and methods of philosophy for those who have little or no prior exposure to the subject. Rather than providing a broad survey, however, we will proceed via a close reading of five classic texts: Plato’s Timaeus and Republic; René Descartes’ Meditations on First Philosophy; David Hume’s Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding; and Immanuel Kant’s Prolegomena to Any Future Metaphysics. Referring to these works, we will introduce four central problems of philosophy: BEING (what exists?); BECOMING (how does change occur?); KNOWLEDGE (how do we know?); and VALUE (what is good?). The authors’ responses to these questions will be situated in their historical and intellectual contexts, illuminating the substance and significance of the problems they try to solve. Our discussion of these topics and texts, meanwhile, will encourage critical thinking and convincing argument – skills essential to proper philosophical discourse.
In this class, students should gain a basic understanding of issues that trouble philosophers. They will evaluate the solutions of those problems given by influential authors, and learn how they might propose and defend solutions of their own. We aim to inculcate a respect for the philosophical enterprise, the ability to engage in it, and, hopefully, the desire to do so.
Argument Analysis Worksheet (.doc format)
Writing Philosophy Papers Handout (.doc format)
Plagiarism Handouts:
First Paper/Critique Assignment (.doc format)
Second Paper Assignment (.doc format)
Please note and follow the instructions:
Your paper should have a cover sheet on which you must write and sign the student pledge: “On my honor, I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this assignment.” Papers without a signed student pledge will not be graded. Include your name only on the cover sheet.
Papers must be submitted in person during the finals period for this class – 8-10am on Monday, December 12. Papers will be accepted at no other time – neither late nor early.
October 5: Prelude to Descartes
Nice descriptions and images of the Platonic Solids.
Last Updated: 11/30/2005 12:52 PM