Introduction to Philosophy develops problem-solving and critical-thinking skills by examining discussions about reality, knowledge, God, freedom, and the nature of ethical and political beliefs.

Text: Experiencing Philosophy (2004) by Anthony Falikowski. Pages listed below should be read before each class. At the beginning of each chapter are Focus Questions (FQ) that can guide your reading, and after each "Original Sourcework" reading are Discussion Questions (DQ).

Grades/Tests: the semester grade is based equally on the two tests and final exam. The tests and exam each consist of three essay questions that are provided beforehand. There is no grade for attendance, but if you miss a class for any reason, you must make up for that absence by submitting answers to the Focus Questions and Discussion Questions indicated for that day's reading. Failure to turn in those answers within a week will result in a loss of 4 points on one of your test scores. You can add extra points to a test score by submitting answers to the Focus Questions and Discussion Questions indicated for that day's reading. Each good set of answers (which has to be submitted at the beginning of that day's class) is worth one additional point; a merely acceptable set of answers is worth 1/2 point. During the course of the semester, you thus have a chance to add up to 25 points to one of your test scores. If you miss a test, contact me before the next class meeting to reschedule the test.

Information on the definitions and sanctions regarding cheating and plagiarism can be found at http://student-rules.tamu.edu/rules20.htm.

Students with disabilities are guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring accommodation, please contact the Department of Student Life, Disability Services, Koldus Bldg. 126, or call 845-1637.

How to do well: Read and outline the text before class, and in class refine your outline notes based on the lectures and discussions. For each chapter you should have an outline that is structured based on answering these four questions about the philosophers or philosophical positions we study:

• What is the basic position or claim being made?
• What are the arguments provided to support that position or claim?
• What objections can be raised against the position or claim?
• What replies can be given to defend the position or claim against these objections?

• An overview of the chapter and a list of objectives ("Learning Outcomes") you should achieve, as well as a list of Focus Questions to think about as you read
• A study guide that includes a list of key terms, a self-test Progress Check, and a summary of major points

You should consult with the professor as often as possible to make sure you are understanding the material. Do not wait until the day before a test to outlineyour class notes or to study the material at the end of each chapter. This is not the kind of course for which you can cram and expect to do well on tests. Take advantage of my office hours.

Go to Dr. Daniel's Home Page

Send Dr. Daniel a message: sdaniel@people.tamu.edu

Office Hours (Bolton 302-B): Tuesday 12:00-12:30, 3:45-5:00; Thursday 12:00-12:30 and often (not always) 3:45-5:00
Phone: 845-5619 (office), 846-4649 (home)
Web: people.tamu.edu/~sdaniel/251sy04a.html