Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - PHIL 100W D100

Knowledge and Reality (3)

Class Number: 6960

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to some of the central problems of philosophy. Topics to be discussed include the different theories of reality; the nature and sources of knowledge, truth, evidence, and reason; the justification of belief and knowledge about the universe. These topics and problems will be considered as they arise in the context of issues such as: relativism versus absolutism; the existence of God; personal identity; the nature of the mind and its relation to the body; free will and determinism; the possibility of moral knowledge. Open to all students. Students with credit for PHIL 100 or PHIL 300 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:

What can we know, and what is the nature of the reality we seek to understand? This course explores foundational questions in epistemology (the theory of knowledge) and metaphysics (the study of reality). We will examine topics such as skepticism, the nature of belief and justification, the distinction between appearance and reality, the existence of the external world, and personal identity. Along the way, we will engage with both classical and contemporary philosophers, including Descartes, Zhuangzi, Princess Elisabeth of Bohemia, Nagel, Putman, Dennett, and more. Students will learn to critically evaluate arguments, develop their own philosophical views, and explore how these abstract questions connect to lived experience and contemporary issues.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Students are expected to come to class prepared, having completed the assigned readings, and to contribute thoughtfully to class discussions. Respectful engagement with diverse viewpoints is significant. All written work (e.g., written reflections and essays) must be submitted by the deadlines. Extensions may be granted only in exceptional circumstances with prior approval.


PHIL 100W may be applied towards the Writing Requirement and the Breadth-Humanities Requirement.

Videos: Why Study Philosophy? and Meet our professors!

Grading

  • Attendance 10%
  • Written reflections (2 x 5%) 10%
  • Mid-term paper 20%
  • Mid-term paper revision 10%
  • Final paper 30%
  • Final paper revision 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be made available by the instructor on Canvas ahead of class meetings.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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 philcomm@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.