Instructions Before Posting On The Discussion Make Sure You

Instructionsbefore Posting On The Discussion Make Sure You Read The

Before posting on the discussion, make sure you read the article, What Is Philosophy, and watch the video. Topic: Discuss in a general way; "What is philosophy?"

Write in an academic style. Support your position. Cite the material you are referring to. Every post should refer to module material or related outside material. When it's material from the module, use the shortcut method. Note that each reading/video has something like (R1), (R2), or (V). Write something like R1, p.3 in your post. Everyone will be able to find it. When it's external material, use a standard citation method. (At least one of your posts must use an external citation. It should be a substantial source relating to the subject.) If you already posted two replies containing citations, then you may post additional comments with no citations.

Have fun responding to others. This is the most difficult, but most satisfying part: Try to make the entire forum a unified work, rather than 40 disconnected posts. Rule for ALL forum discussions: (1) You must initiate at least one thread. (2) You must respond to at least two other students' initiating posts.

To comply with the outside resources part of the Levels of Achievement matrix (see below) use the sources available at the Philosophy Resources Page. NOTE: I strongly recommend reading How To Have Productive Philosophical Conversations in the Resources section before posting anything. Also, read the Sample Discussion Thread to give you a feel for what is expected (length, content, tone, structure).

Paper For Above instruction

The assignment requires a comprehensive discussion on the nature of philosophy, emphasizing engagement with provided module materials and external sources. The goal is to articulate a clear and academically rigorous understanding of what philosophy is, supported by readings and videos assigned in the course. The discussion should demonstrate critical thinking, proper citation, and a cohesive integration of ideas to foster a meaningful dialogue about philosophy's role and importance.

To start, students should thoroughly read the article "What Is Philosophy" and watch the related video featuring Dr. Adler's introductory concepts. These materials serve as the foundational references. Students are expected to interpret and synthesize the core ideas from these resources, such as philosophy’s inquiry into fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reality. For example, the article emphasizes that philosophy is a pursuit of wisdom that involves critical questioning and rational argumentation (R1).

Furthermore, students should explore why philosophy is "everybody's business" as outlined in the second required reading, which discusses the accessibility and relevance of philosophical thinking to everyday life and societal issues (R2). This helps clarify how philosophy extends beyond academic specialists to influence personal beliefs, moral decisions, and social policies.

In addition to module materials, students are encouraged to consult external scholarly sources—such as classic texts by Plato or Aristotle, contemporary philosophers like Bertrand Russell, or academic articles explaining the importance of philosophical literacy. An external citation might involve referencing a reputable philosophy encyclopedia or journal article that elaborates on the role of philosophy in critical thinking and fostering rational discourse.

The writing should maintain an academic tone, utilizing clear, precise language, and adhering to proper citation practices. It is essential to support claims with specific references to the materials (e.g., "According to R1, p.3, philosophy is characterized by..."). The post should contribute original insights or questions to provoke further discussion, such as reflecting on personal interpretations of what philosophy entails or its relevance today.

Engaging with peers by responding to at least two other posts with respectful, thoughtful comments enriched by citations is required to ensure a collaborative and cohesive forum environment. The aim is to create a unified dialogue exploring diverse perspectives on the nature and significance of philosophy, grounded in both course materials and external knowledge.

References

  • R1. "What Is Philosophy?" (Course article). Retrieved from [URL or citation format]
  • R2. "Why Philosophy Is Everybody's Business." (Course reading). Retrieved from [URL or citation format]
  • Adler, J. (Year). The Use of Philosophy. Publisher.
  • Russell, B. (1945). History of Western Philosophy. Simon and Schuster.
  • Plato. (c. 380 BC). The Republic. Translated by [Translator].
  • Aristotle. (c. 350 BC). Nicomachean Ethics. Translated by [Translator].
  • King, P. (1994). Philosophy and Critical Thinking. New York: Routledge.
  • Audi, R. (2011). Introduction to Philosophy. Routledge.
  • Nagel, T. (2012). What Does It All Mean? A Very Short Introduction to Philosophy. Oxford University Press.
  • Journal of Philosophy. (Latest issue). Articles on the importance of philosophical literacy. [Include proper DOI or URL]

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