Introduction to Philosophy Syllabus for 2016-2017
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Course

PHIL-1301-001 Introduction to Philosophy

Prerequisites

Course Description

A study of major issues in philosophy and/or the work of major philosophical figures in philosophy. Topics in philosophy may include theories of reality, theories of knowledge, theories of value and their practical applications.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

 

1. Blackburn, Simon, The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy, 2^nd Edition Revised, Oxford University Press, 2008.

2.  Porter, Burton, Philosophy Through Film, 2^nd Edition, Sloan Publishing, 2009.

3. Optional:  Most Recent Edition of MLA Handbook

Supplies

Your textbooks, syllabus, a dictionary, pens or pencils, notebook paper or a notebook, and access to a computer to complete assignments and review class materials.  Access to library materials is necessary for the successful completion of this course.  Access to film rentals may be necessary if you cannot attend on the days we view and discuss contemporary movies.

Student Performance

ACCESSING AC CONNECT:

Online communication will be achieved between students and the professor by using AC Connect.  It is the student's responsibility to check for email messages and announcements regarding this class by clicking on AC Connect at the top of the Amarillo College home page, and then clicking on the icon identifying this class.  You will be able to communicate with both your classmates and professor, check your syllabus, find required supplemental materials, assignments, and grades posted there.

All exams, except for Exam #1, will be taken in class.  Other assignments, including weekly assignments and the research project, will be submitted through Blackboard.  If you need assistance submitting assignments through Blackboard, contact the Writing Lab, Writer’s Corner, or the Learning Center (library).  All assignments are due at the beginning of the class period.  

Late Assignments:  10 pts will be deducted from the grade for late assignments for each day they are late.  After three days, late assignments will receive a zero..  

OBJECTIVES AND GOALS: We will identify history’s leading paradigmatic philosophers and analyze their philosophies through assigned readings, lectures, discussions and the viewing of appropriate movies and movie clips.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (EXEMPLARY EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES):

Upon successful completion of the course, students will:

1.         Read, analyze, and critique philosophical texts. 

2.         Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, major arguments, problems, and terminology in Philosophy.

3.         Present logically persuasive arguments both orally and in writing. 

4.         Demonstrate critical thinking skills in evaluation and application of philosophical concepts to various aspects of life. 

5.         Evaluate the personal and social responsibilities of living in a diverse world.

THE STUDY OF PHILOSOPHY:  Philosophy is an important part to the foundation of a liberal arts education. Courses in philosophy help to provide a deeper understanding of the concepts which have formed human cultures while at the same time helping to develop the students’ skills in critical analysis, their ability to write and interpret texts from all cultures, and to examine the ideas behind theoretical thinking. 

SPECIFIC COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR PHILOSOPHY 1301:

1.         Regular attendance and classroom participation. Two unexcused absences will result in the loss of one letter grade for the semester unless at least one of those absences is made up.  Four unexcused absences will then result in the loss of two letter grades unless at least one of those absences is made up.  Absences may be excused if they are the result of illness, official Amarillo College business, or personal emergencies. It is your responsibility to talk with the instructor about this. Unexcused absences may be made up by doing extra work as approved by your instructor.

2.         A careful reading of all the assigned sections of the textbooks (see the class outline on this syllabus to find your specific reading assignments), and all informational sheets.  Reading the assigned portions of the textbooks before coming to class is necessary for the successful completion of this course. 

3.         The successful completion of three examinations, including the final examination. See the course outline for the dates of these exams.

4.        In addition, students will complete one of the following research project assignments:

      Research Project Option #1:    

           a.  Students will complete this assignment by (1) choosing one BRANCH of philosophy focused on in our textbook by Burton Porter; (2) then choosing two paradigmatic philosophers who represent opposite schools of thought within this branch of philosophy, and (3) using at least four academic level sources (4) including at least one source written by each of the two chosen philosophers, each student will write a four to six page paper using good form which compares and contrasts the two approaches to this area of philosophy.  (5) Research papers must contain a strong conclusion explaining which philosopher (in your opinion) makes the strongest argument and why.

       Research Project Option #2:

            a.  Students will complete this assignment by (1) choosing two films (not viewed or discussed in class) from film bibliographies found in our textbook by Burton Porter; (2) viewing both films to provide a concise synopsis and analysis of each, and (3) using at least four academic level sources (4) each student will write a four to six page paper using good form which explains how each film helps, or fails to help the viewer understand concepts and questions specific to a particular area of philosophy.  Each paper should include specific examples from each film and a conclusion regarding the effectiveness of each film as a means of better understanding philosophy. 

                   The following requirements apply to both options #1 and #2:

               a.  You will then read and defend this paper before an assigned peer group (see the course outline for the specific dates due).  Your classmates will then be able to ask questions after your presentation.

               b.  Students should submit one copy through the research paper assignment in blackboard and print one copy to read and submit in class on the due date.

               c.  In using the various resources and writers available to you, always remember that “before one can say ‘I disagree,’ one must be able to say ‘I understand’” (William James).

               d.  Your attached bibliography or "works cited" page must include only the sources which are documented inside the text of your paper.  Internet resources used must come from reliable, academic level websites, and be properly documented so that your instructor may check the accuracy of your references.

                e.  Consult the research paper grading scale included with this syllabus; and visit the “Writer’s Corner” in room 102 of Ordway Hall for free and personal help writing this paper, if needed.  You should also use the most recent edition of the MLA Handbook (available in the college bookstore) for guidance regarding both form and documentation. 

 

Research Paper Grading Scale

For select courses taught by Greg White

1.  Mechanics: 20%

Documentation and Form are graded by the standards in the MLA Handbook (consult your syllabus).

 

       A.        Introduction                            5     4     3     2     1     0     5%

                        Grammar/Spelling

                               Evidence of Proof-Reading

                               Neatness

                               Documentation/Form               

         B.        Body                                       5     4     3     2     1     0     5%

                        Grammar/Spelling

                               Evidence of Proof-Reading

                               Neatness

                               Documentation/Form

            C.        Conclusion                          5     4     3     2     1     0     5%

                        Grammar/Spelling

                               Evidence of Proof-Reading

                               Neatness

                               Documentation/Form               

         D.        Bibliography                           5     4     3     2     1     0     5%

                        Form/Content

                               Completeness/Consistency

                               Neatness

                               Spelling

                              

                               Any Obvious Sources Not Consulted?      

                                

2.  Content:  80%

 

         A.        Research                               10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

         B.        Thesis Statement                  10     8    6     4     2     0     10%           

         C.        Documentation                      10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

         D         Use of Logic/Thoughtfulness/

                     Analysis                                10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

         E.         Completeness/Consistency  10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

         F.         Reactions/Conclusions         10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

         G.        Potential Future Value of

                     the Research                        10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

         H.        Is the Paper Interesting?        10     8     6     4     2     0     10%

 

         I.          Length:  - ______ points (acceptable length loses zero points)

3.  Total Points/Letter Grade: 

______\______  

Points    Letter   

4.  Comments:

 

         

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

ACADEMIC HONESTY:

All matters of academic dishonesty including plagiarism, collusion, and fabrication and cheating will result in a failing grade for the assignment in question.  All violations will be reported to the proper college authorities for review. 

CELL PHONES/PERSONAL COMPUTERS:

In order to not interrupt the class, students are asked to turn off or silence all cell phones prior to the beginning of each class session.  Personal computers are allowed for taking notes and/or looking up materials that will contribute to our class discussion.  However, the improper use of cell phones and/or computers will not be tolerated.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR:

Your instructor wants this class to be both interesting and fun, but any form of disruptive classroom behavior will not be tolerated.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

All students are required to follow the AC Student Rights/Responsibilities Statement (On the internet, go to www.actx.edu  and look under the “campus bookmarks”).

Grading Criteria

COURSE GRADE BREAKDOWN:               COURSE GRADING SCALE:                

Weekly Assignments      20%

First Examination           20%                            90-100                 A

            Second Examination      20%                             80-89                  B

            Final Examination          20%                             70-79                  C      

            Research Assignment    20%                             60-69                  D

                                        100%                              0-59                   F

                                                           

Attendance

Regular attendance and classroom participation are required.  Students will be expected to sign in for each class meeting.  Students are required to bring their I.D. badge or smartphone to class to scan the barcode and record attendance (15 minutes or less before class time).  Replacement I.D. badges may be obtained through the Registrar.  Students must download the “Elucian Go” app to be able to scan the barcode from their smartphone.  

Absences:  Two unexcused absences will result in the loss of one letter grade for the semester.  Four unexcused absences will then result in the loss of two letter grades.  Absences may be excused if they are the result of illness, official Amarillo College business, or personal emergencies.   It is your responsibility to talk with the instructor about absences. Unexcused absences may be made up by doing extra work as approved by your instructor.

Calendar

Additional Information

DO NOT FORGET THIS DATE:

            Last Day to Withdraw without a Failing Grade:                    Dec. 7, 2016