Philosophical Inquiry Part I

The Nuts and Bolts 3 sections, each providing an overview of an area of philosophical inquiry. Draft of at least section 1 on or before 4/1/14. Final draft of sections 1, 2, and 3 due by 5/9/14. Format: MLA Length: Three sections of 2-4 pages for a total of 6-12 pages. Relevant quotes from Philosophical Journey. No outside research required.

The 3 Sections 1. What exists and what is real? Universals vs. particulars; ideas, objects, and experiences; the mind-body problem; freedom vs determinism; and questions about the existence of God. 2. How does one acquire knowledge about what exists and what is real? The Socratic Method, Rationalism, Empiricism, Skepticism, Kantian Constructivism, Pragmatism, and Relativism. 3. How does one determine the right way to act? Relativism, Subjectivism, Objectivism, Ethical Egoism, Utilitarianism, Kantianism, and Virtue Ethics.

Section 1 1.What exists and what is real? Universals vs. particulars; ideas, objects, and experiences; the mind-body problem; freedom vs determinism; and questions about the existence of God. A.that you are aware of the questions philosophers ask when looking at ontological questions; B.that you comprehend the responses some of major philosophers we've studied have offered in response to these questions; C.that you can evaluate the different strengths and weakness of these responses; D.that you can argue for and against some of the aspects of these different responses. Your inquiry is an opportunity to demonstrate your ability to do philosophy-- that is, it is an opportunity to demonstrate

What exists and what is real? What are the questions and issues philosophers examine when grappling with this ontological question? Why are these questions philosophically significant—that is, why are these questions philosophers are properly concerned with?

What exists and what is real? What are some of the answers to these questions have we read about and/or discussed? What are the major strengths and weaknesses of these answers? Why are these strengths and weaknesses?

What exists and what is real? At this point, what philosophical answer and/or approach to ontological questions seems to make the most sense to you or be the most accurate? At this point, what philosophical answer and/or approach to ontological questions seems to make the least sense to you or be the least accurate?