Philosophy: Introduction to Skepticism

An introduction to philosophy via several questions in ethics, theory of knowledge, and philosophy of religion, all related broadly to skepticism. Credit not awarded for both PHIL 1105 and versions of the course offered as PHIL 1010 to 1029.

Open to degree and PACE students

This course is an introduction to the problems of philosophy, centered on the theme of skepticism. We begin with a close reading of the Plato's "Apology," which purports to reproduce the speech Socrates gave at his trial. In defending himself, Socrates also defended his generally skeptical outlook—and philosophy itself. After a brief detour into logic, we move on to consider skeptical arguments in a number of areas. We start by considering some of the literature on the morality of abortion, which I will argue illustrates Socrates’s point that we don’t know much of what we claim to know. We go on to ask whether morality is even a realm of fact, something that could be known at all. We also consider whether religion could be the basis for morality and moral knowledge and ask whether we have reason to believe in God in the first place. We conclude by considering arguments concerning the possibility of knowledge of the world around us, our own bodies, the laws of nature, and whether other people even exist.

The course will be a mix of lecture and structured discussion, centered on careful readings of a small number of texts. Students will be expected to spend a good deal of time reading and rereading the material prior to each class and to attend class regularly. All materials will be made available on line at no charge. The pace will accelerate as the term continues and as students become better acquainted with philosophical ways of thinking. The main point of the course is to help students learn to think and express themselves more clearly. We will have fun and work hard every day!

Grades will be based on three examinations. For exams, I typically hand out two to four long essay questions in advance. If so, the only surprise is which question(s) I pick for you to answer, closed book. A student's grade can be affected negatively by unexcused absences (or, in very rare cases, disruption) and positively by helpful participation in class discussions. Requirements, method of instruction, and even content are subject to change, but the method of evaluation is unlikely to change.