INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY (PHIL 201)

Manchester University, Spring 2020 Instructor: Steve Naragon
Welcome! Course Objectives Course Requirements Writing Schedule Philosophy FAQ What is philosophy good for? Latin Phrases Identify/Describe/... [Grading Rubrics] [Canvas] [Starfish] [Instructor Homepage] [Registrar] [Philosophy/Religious Studies Dept.]	Course Requirements How to Succeed in this Class First, be sure to show up for class. Second, show up prepared to talk and ask questions. The best way to be prepared is to set aside about two hours of your time in order to do the following: (a) Read through the list of “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO” listed with each day. (b) Work through the assigned readings, making notes in the margins as you go. (c) Re-read that list of “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO” and consider whether you know how to do those things yet; if you don't, then return to the assigned “Readings” and study them some more until you do. Repeat steps (a) through (c) as needed. (d) When you have interest and a little extra time, take a look at some of the “Other Resources”. They are usually pretty interesting, and they will often give you a different angle on the topic being considered. If you want, write up an Extra Credit Journal on one of these items. If you follow this procedure consistently during the term – and if you put your best effort into the writing assignments – then you should do well on the daily quizzes, be ready for the exams, you will do well in the course, and you will learn quite a lot of philosophy. Attendance. If you do not plan to attend class and participate constructively, then you should withdraw from this class. A course on philosophy is by its nature aimed at self-examination and discussion; consequently, doing well in this class requires being there. Missing class does not directly affect your grade, although students with poor attendance typically do quite poorly in the class. On the average, students missing more than two classes during a semester receive grades below the class average. Cell Phones. I feel like I’m pushing against an irresistable tide, but I really do not want you to have your cell phones out while in the classroom – not in your hand, not in your lap, not on the desk, preferably buried in a backpack. This class involves listening closely to, and thinking carefully about, what others are saying, a focused discussion is supposed to take place in this classroom, and none of that is possible if you are staring at your cell phone. Many people are now quite literally addicted to their phones. If the phone is within reach it will be reached and checked and used about every five minutes on average (and that’s just averaging over a 17 hour waking day; peak usage can involve checking the phone every few seconds). I understand that sometimes you are looking up important information with your phone; that’s admirable, but probably not necessary. Just write down the question or topic, and look it up later. That’s what we all used to do “in the old days,” and it worked pretty well. If you are going to attend class, then please turn off your phone. Laptops and iPads. The occasional student will take notes best with a keyboard and computer, but most students are unable to use their computers without compulsively checking Facebook, email, and otherwise surfing the web. This is bad for the student, of course, but it is especially unfair to those sitting nearby, who can be distracted by the unrelated material glowing from your screen. Unless you have a documented disability that requires the use of a laptop or tablet, prepare to take notes the old fashioned way, with paper and pencil. Why the "No Laptop" policy? Research indicates that taking notes on a laptop (i.e., typing your notes) generally results in notes inferior to those written by hand, and you are also less likely to retain the information. If you don't believe me, read this item from the Scientific American (June 3, 2014) or this from the Association for Psychological Science (April 24, 2014). In other words, even if you don't let the computer distract you from the classroom discussion, you'll still be taking notes that are worth less than if you wrote them by hand. Quizzes. There will be a quiz every other day, more or less, over the readings for that class-period and material discussed the previous period or day. The quizzes will normally involve five multiple-choice questions, of which you need to answer only four correctly for a perfect score (thus, a well-prepared student can easily receive extra credit points in this manner). Because you are allowed to use your reading notes when taking these quizzes, this should also offer some motivation to take good notes while reading. These quizzes help keep each of us informed of your grasp of the material, and should provide additional motivation to stay current with the readings, and to work through the day’s material each evening. Preparing for these quizzes: (1) Go to the schedule for that day and read through the list of “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO”; (2) Work through the “READINGS”, taking notes, or at least marking in the margin those passages that seem relevant to the things you need to know how to do; (3) Go back to that list and make sure you can do what you need to do. Repeat as needed. [Makeup: Missed quizzes can be made up in my office, but this has to occur before the next class meeting. It is entirely your responsibility to make this arrangement.] Daily Paragraphs. A daily paragraph will be due each class session, at least 30 minutes before the beginning of class rubrics. These will be completed on the appropriate “Discussion” page on Canvas. See the Writing page for more information. [Late: Paragraphs submitted after the beginning of class will be counted as late (with a 0.5 point reduction) but still accepted until the close of that day, i.e., midnight.] Exams. There will be three in-class exams, all non-cumulative, covering just the material since the previous exam. They will be a combination of short answer and multiple choice and you will be allowed to use one 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of handwritten notes (you may use both sides) while writing the exam. Preparing for these exams: Don't think that you can cram for a philosophy exam. To do well in philosophy, you need to understand the material, and understanding takes time — it's not going to come to you at 3 a.m. on the morning of the exam. So, to do well, you just need to keep up with the class readings and discussions. For each class, answer as best you can each item on the “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO” list, fit that all onto your page of notes, review it the night before the exam, and you should do fine. [Makeup: Exams missed due to an excused absence are to be taken as soon as possible or else will be forfeited. It is your responsibility to see me about this.] Extra Credit. You may write, for extra credit, journal entries on various additional materials — essays, films, videos, audio recordings — that are listed on the Schedule and marked with an [EC]. See the Writing page for more information. Grading. The set of three exams is worth 60%; the set of quizzes is worth 15%; and the set of daily paragraphs is worth 25%. I use the following letter grade conversion scale: A (94-100), A- (90-93), B+ (87-89), B (83-86), B- (80-82), C+ (77-79), C (73-76), C- (70-72), D+ (67-69), D (63-66), D-(60-62), F (0-59). Course Evaluation. Manchester University depends on feedback from all students to improve the educational experience. Students’ professional, constructive feedback to faculty will help us make adjustments to teaching styles and course content to better suit student needs. Student confidentiality to course faculty is assured. Evaluations for the course will be available prior to the end of the course; students will be notified via e-mail when they become available to complete. The instructors do not see these evaluations until after the course grades have been submitted. Cheating and Plagiarism. Plagiarism consists of submitting the statements, ideas, opinions, or findings of another as if they were your own. It is not plagiarism to copy from or paraphrase a source as long as this is acknowledged and the source is cited. Cheating and deliberate plagiarism will result in automatically failing the class. For more information, see the university policy as printed in The Source. When life happens… If circumstances in your life occur that affect your performance in class (e.g., childcare issues, unreliable transportation, a sick grandparent, expected recurring absences for any reason), you should talk to me and to your other professors immediately. We can figure something out. [The following material comes to you courtesy of the University Administration] Academic Support. Manchester University has a commitment to the success of its students; therefore, the Success Center services will serve you well! Whether you are in the honors program, need a little help getting started with an essay, or need some extensive tutoring for a math class, familiarize yourself with the Success Center on the second floor of the Switzer Center! Student Disability and Reasonable Accommodation Policy. Manchester University, in compliance with federal guidelines, is committed to assuring students with disabilities equal access to programs and activities however, it is the student’s responsibility to self-disclose the disability. Students who feel they may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact Mia Miller, the Disability Support Coordinator, to establish eligibility and to coordinate reasonable accommodations. Students whose accommodation requests are approved will be provided with confidential letters to deliver to their professors. Each letter verifies the disability and documents the need for auxiliary aids and services and/or academic adjustments/accommodations. Students are encouraged to meet with each professor early in the semester to discuss academic implications as they relate to each specific course and to request appropriate accommodation. The Disability Support Services office is in the Success Center (second floor of the Jo Young Switzer Center) and can be reached by phone at 260-982-5888 or 260-982-5499 to schedule an appointment. Medical Emergency/Evacuation Assistance Statement. Students should speak to the instructor immediately if (1) they may require medical attention during class, or (2) they have a disability, chronic condition, or a temporary injury that may limit or affect their ability to evacuate the classroom/building in an emergency. The student and the instructor should discuss the student’s specific needs and the types of precautions that should be made in advance of such an event. In the event of a fire or other situation requiring emergency evacuation, students with ambulatory disabilities are to go with or without assistance to the nearest stairwell area. Faculty and staff will assist with evacuation management efforts until such time as the Campus Safety and/or Police and Fire Departments arrive on the scene to assist in student evacuation from the building. Elevators are not to be used for evacuation by any persons. Students who need special arrangements in the event of an evacuation should also register with Mia Miller in the Success Center as early as possible in the semester to help facilitate the provision of needed emergency assistance. Sexual Misconduct Reporting Requirement. Manchester University is committed to fostering a safe community where the infinite worth of all individuals is respected. Title IX and institutional policy prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity. Consequently, sexual misconduct— including harassment, domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking — is also prohibited at Manchester. Faculty, staff and administrators encourage anyone experiencing sexual misconduct, dating/domestic violence, or stalking to talk to someone about what happened, so they can get the support they need and Manchester University can respond appropriately. Individuals who wish to file a report of sexual misconduct should contact the Title IX Coordinator (260-982-5721) or/and Manchester University Campus Safety (260-982-5999) or/and go online to submit a Report it form. On campus Confidential resources: MU Counseling Services (260-982-5888) MU Health Services (260-982-5306) MU Campus Pastor (260-982-5243) North Manchester Campus Victim Advocate (260-563-4407) CARE Initiative (260-982-5027) Off-campus resources: Hands of Hope (Service to North Manchester Campus-24/7 Hotline 260-563-4407) Fort Wayne Sexual Violence Treatment Center (Service to both Fort Wayne & North Manchester Campuses-24/7 Hotline 260-423-2222) YWCA of Northeast Indiana (Domestic Violence & Sexual Violence: 260-447-7233) To make a police report, contact the North Manchester Police Department (260-982-8555) or Fort Wayne Police Department (260-472-1222). For questions about institutional policies and procedures regarding sexual misconduct, please contact the Title IX Coordinator. Learn more about Title IX and survivor support at the following websites: https://www.manchester.edu/about-manchester/university-priorities/title-ix https://www.manchester.edu/student-life/care-initiative/care-intitiative-home. Manchester University strives to uphold privacy and confidentiality as much as possible and only shares information received with those who have a need to know in order to respond. Individuals who desire anonymity in discussing and seeking assistance about sexual misconduct should contact and/or be referred to a confidential employee.
Manchester University // Registrar // Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies // Last updated: 29 Dec 2019

INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY (PHIL 201)

Course Requirements

How to Succeed in this Class

First, be sure to show up for class. Second, show up prepared to talk and ask questions. The best way to be prepared is to set aside about two hours of your time in order to do the following:

(a) Read through the list of “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO” listed with each day.

(b) Work through the assigned readings, making notes in the margins as you go.

(c) Re-read that list of “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO” and consider whether you know how to do those things yet; if you don't, then return to the assigned “Readings” and study them some more until you do. Repeat steps (a) through (c) as needed.

(d) When you have interest and a little extra time, take a look at some of the “Other Resources”. They are usually pretty interesting, and they will often give you a different angle on the topic being considered. If you want, write up an Extra Credit Journal on one of these items.

If you follow this procedure consistently during the term – and if you put your best effort into the writing assignments – then you should do well on the daily quizzes, be ready for the exams, you will do well in the course, and you will learn quite a lot of philosophy.

Attendance. If you do not plan to attend class and participate constructively, then you should withdraw from this class. A course on philosophy is by its nature aimed at self-examination and discussion; consequently, doing well in this class requires being there. Missing class does not directly affect your grade, although students with poor attendance typically do quite poorly in the class. On the average, students missing more than two classes during a semester receive grades below the class average.

Cell Phones. No Cell Phones! I feel like I’m pushing against an irresistable tide, but I really do not want you to have your cell phones out while in the classroom – not in your hand, not in your lap, not on the desk, preferably buried in a backpack.

This class involves listening closely to, and thinking carefully about, what others are saying, a focused discussion is supposed to take place in this classroom, and none of that is possible if you are staring at your cell phone.

Many people are now quite literally addicted to their phones. If the phone is within reach it will be reached and checked and used about every five minutes on average (and that’s just averaging over a 17 hour waking day; peak usage can involve checking the phone every few seconds).

I understand that sometimes you are looking up important information with your phone; that’s admirable, but probably not necessary. Just write down the question or topic, and look it up later. That’s what we all used to do “in the old days,” and it worked pretty well.

If you are going to attend class, then please turn off your phone.

Laptops and iPads. The occasional student will take notes best with a keyboard and computer, but most students are unable to use their computers without compulsively checking Facebook, email, and otherwise surfing the web. This is bad for the student, of course, but it is especially unfair to those sitting nearby, who can be distracted by the unrelated material glowing from your screen. Unless you have a documented disability that requires the use of a laptop or tablet, prepare to take notes the old fashioned way, with paper and pencil.

Why the "No Laptop" policy? Research indicates that taking notes on a laptop (i.e., typing your notes) generally results in notes inferior to those written by hand, and you are also less likely to retain the information. If you don't believe me, read this item from the Scientific American (June 3, 2014) or this from the Association for Psychological Science (April 24, 2014).

In other words, even if you don't let the computer distract you from the classroom discussion, you'll still be taking notes that are worth less than if you wrote them by hand.

Quizzes. There will be a quiz every other day, more or less, over the readings for that class-period and material discussed the previous period or day. The quizzes will normally involve five multiple-choice questions, of which you need to answer only four correctly for a perfect score (thus, a well-prepared student can easily receive extra credit points in this manner). Because you are allowed to use your reading notes when taking these quizzes, this should also offer some motivation to take good notes while reading.

These quizzes help keep each of us informed of your grasp of the material, and should provide additional motivation to stay current with the readings, and to work through the day’s material each evening.

Preparing for these quizzes: (1) Go to the schedule for that day and read through the list of “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO”; (2) Work through the “READINGS”, taking notes, or at least marking in the margin those passages that seem relevant to the things you need to know how to do; (3) Go back to that list and make sure you can do what you need to do. Repeat as needed.

[Makeup: Missed quizzes can be made up in my office, but this has to occur before the next class meeting. It is entirely your responsibility to make this arrangement.]

Daily Paragraphs. A daily paragraph will be due each class session, at least 30 minutes before the beginning of class rubrics. These will be completed on the appropriate “Discussion” page on Canvas. See the Writing page for more information.

[Late: Paragraphs submitted after the beginning of class will be counted as late (with a 0.5 point reduction) but still accepted until the close of that day, i.e., midnight.]

Exams. There will be three in-class exams, all non-cumulative, covering just the material since the previous exam. They will be a combination of short answer and multiple choice and you will be allowed to use one 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of handwritten notes (you may use both sides) while writing the exam.

Preparing for these exams: Don't think that you can cram for a philosophy exam. To do well in philosophy, you need to understand the material, and understanding takes time — it's not going to come to you at 3 a.m. on the morning of the exam. So, to do well, you just need to keep up with the class readings and discussions. For each class, answer as best you can each item on the “WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DO” list, fit that all onto your page of notes, review it the night before the exam, and you should do fine.

[Makeup: Exams missed due to an excused absence are to be taken as soon as possible or else will be forfeited. It is your responsibility to see me about this.]

Extra Credit. You may write, for extra credit, journal entries on various additional materials — essays, films, videos, audio recordings — that are listed on the Schedule and marked with an [EC]. See the Writing page for more information.

Grading. The set of three exams is worth 60%; the set of quizzes is worth 15%; and the set of daily paragraphs is worth 25%.

I use the following letter grade conversion scale: A (94-100), A- (90-93), B+ (87-89), B (83-86), B- (80-82), C+ (77-79), C (73-76), C- (70-72), D+ (67-69), D (63-66), D-(60-62), F (0-59).

Course Evaluation. Manchester University depends on feedback from all students to improve the educational experience. Students’ professional, constructive feedback to faculty will help us make adjustments to teaching styles and course content to better suit student needs. Student confidentiality to course faculty is assured. Evaluations for the course will be available prior to the end of the course; students will be notified via e-mail when they become available to complete. The instructors do not see these evaluations until after the course grades have been submitted.

Cheating and Plagiarism. No Stealing! Plagiarism consists of submitting the statements, ideas, opinions, or findings of another as if they were your own. It is not plagiarism to copy from or paraphrase a source as long as this is acknowledged and the source is cited. Cheating and deliberate plagiarism will result in automatically failing the class. For more information, see the university policy as printed in The Source.

When life happens… If circumstances in your life occur that affect your performance in class (e.g., childcare issues, unreliable transportation, a sick grandparent, expected recurring absences for any reason), you should talk to me and to your other professors immediately. We can figure something out.

[The following material comes to you courtesy of the University Administration]

Academic Support. Manchester University has a commitment to the success of its students; therefore, the Success Center services will serve you well! Whether you are in the honors program, need a little help getting started with an essay, or need some extensive tutoring for a math class, familiarize yourself with the Success Center on the second floor of the Switzer Center!

Student Disability and Reasonable Accommodation Policy. Manchester University, in compliance with federal guidelines, is committed to assuring students with disabilities equal access to programs and activities however, it is the student’s responsibility to self-disclose the disability. Students who feel they may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact Mia Miller, the Disability Support Coordinator, to establish eligibility and to coordinate reasonable accommodations. Students whose accommodation requests are approved will be provided with confidential letters to deliver to their professors. Each letter verifies the disability and documents the need for auxiliary aids and services and/or academic adjustments/accommodations. Students are encouraged to meet with each professor early in the semester to discuss academic implications as they relate to each specific course and to request appropriate accommodation. The Disability Support Services office is in the Success Center (second floor of the Jo Young Switzer Center) and can be reached by phone at 260-982-5888 or 260-982-5499 to schedule an appointment.

Medical Emergency/Evacuation Assistance Statement. Students should speak to the instructor immediately if (1) they may require medical attention during class, or (2) they have a disability, chronic condition, or a temporary injury that may limit or affect their ability to evacuate the classroom/building in an emergency. The student and the instructor should discuss the student’s specific needs and the types of precautions that should be made in advance of such an event. In the event of a fire or other situation requiring emergency evacuation, students with ambulatory disabilities are to go with or without assistance to the nearest stairwell area. Faculty and staff will assist with evacuation management efforts until such time as the Campus Safety and/or Police and Fire Departments arrive on the scene to assist in student evacuation from the building. Elevators are not to be used for evacuation by any persons.

Students who need special arrangements in the event of an evacuation should also register with Mia Miller in the Success Center as early as possible in the semester to help facilitate the provision of needed emergency assistance.

Sexual Misconduct Reporting Requirement. Manchester University is committed to fostering a safe community where the infinite worth of all individuals is respected. Title IX and institutional policy prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity. Consequently, sexual misconduct— including harassment, domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking — is also prohibited at Manchester. Faculty, staff and administrators encourage anyone experiencing sexual misconduct, dating/domestic violence, or stalking to talk to someone about what happened, so they can get the support they need and Manchester University can respond appropriately.

Individuals who wish to file a report of sexual misconduct should contact the Title IX Coordinator (260-982-5721) or/and Manchester University Campus Safety (260-982-5999) or/and go online to submit a Report it form.

On campus Confidential resources:

MU Counseling Services (260-982-5888)

MU Health Services (260-982-5306)

MU Campus Pastor (260-982-5243)

North Manchester Campus Victim Advocate (260-563-4407)

CARE Initiative (260-982-5027)

Off-campus resources:

Hands of Hope (Service to North Manchester Campus-24/7 Hotline 260-563-4407)

Fort Wayne Sexual Violence Treatment Center (Service to both Fort Wayne & North Manchester Campuses-24/7 Hotline 260-423-2222)

YWCA of Northeast Indiana (Domestic Violence & Sexual Violence: 260-447-7233)

To make a police report, contact the North Manchester Police Department (260-982-8555) or Fort Wayne Police Department (260-472-1222).

For questions about institutional policies and procedures regarding sexual misconduct, please contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Learn more about Title IX and survivor support at the following websites:

https://www.manchester.edu/about-manchester/university-priorities/title-ix

https://www.manchester.edu/student-life/care-initiative/care-intitiative-home.

**Manchester University strives to uphold privacy and confidentiality as much as possible and only shares information received with those who have a need to know in order to respond. Individuals who desire anonymity in discussing and seeking assistance about sexual misconduct should contact and/or be referred to a confidential employee.**

Manchester University // Registrar // Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies // Last updated: 29 Dec 2019