Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2020 - PHIL 300 D300

Introduction to Philosophy (3)

Class Number: 5564

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2020: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    At least 60 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introductory course specifically intended for students in other departments who have at least 60 units. This course is more advanced than 100 and 200 division courses and is of interest to students not only in the humanities, but also in the natural and social sciences. This course does not count towards the upper division requirements for a student pursuing a minor, major, or honours program in philosophy. Normally, students with credit for PHIL 100 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

In this course we will explore some central problems of philosophy. We will explore the nature and possibility of knowledge, examining what reasons we have to think that knowledge is possible at all and what is required for knowledge to be justified. We will also examine the nature of personal identity, exploring whether it is continuity of body or mind through time that makes us the same self. We will also address arguments regarding whether or not we have free will, and the connection between free will and personhood.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:


PHIL 300 may be applied towards the Certificate in Liberal Arts and the Breadth-Humanities Requirement.

Only if you are a Philosophy Major or Minor: please note that PHIL 300 will NOT count towards your upper division requirements.

This course is designed to advance your critical thinking, reading and writing skills. The philosophical issues we will explore are central to an understanding of the human condition, and reflecting on these questions is essential to living an examined life. You will also learn the fundamental principles of analytical writing, including argument reconstruction and analysis. These general skills are essential to philosophy, but are applicable to all fields of study.

Grading

  • Attendance 5%
  • Participation 10%
  • First Quiz 20%
  • Second Quiz 20%
  • First paper 20%
  • Second paper 25%

REQUIREMENTS:

Attendance requires online presence during scheduled class time. Participation will be evaluated based on questions or comments made during class time, and questions submitted to the instructor for discussion during class time. Students will be required to keep a record of participation, and submit a self-assessment report at the end of the term.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

You will need a computer and internet access to attend classes, and complete assignments. Classes will be held online using Zoom, during scheduled class time. You will need to be able to open and create files in PDF format.

REQUIRED READING:

Weekly readings will be posted on the course Canvas page, in PDF format.


Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philmgr@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2020

Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.