PHI 240 - Ancient Philosophy (3 Credits)
Topic outline
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by Roy Clouser (3 Credits)
The study of Ancient Philosophy is important and practical for a number of reasons. First, it provides a foundation for understanding the development of Western thought. Many of the ideas and concepts that we take for granted today, such as democracy, human rights, and the scientific method, were first explored by ancient philosophers. By studying their work, we can better understand how our own ideas and values came to be.
Second, ancient philosophy can help us to develop critical thinking skills. Ancient philosophers were masters of logic and argumentation, and their writings can teach us how to think clearly and rationally about complex issues. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information, it is more important than ever to be able to think critically about the sources of our information and to form our own opinions based on evidence.
Third, ancient philosophy can help us to live better lives. Ancient philosophers were concerned with the big questions of life, such as the meaning of existence, the nature of happiness, and the best way to live. Their writings can offer us guidance and insights as we try to navigate the challenges of life.
In short, the study of Ancient Philosophy is important and practical because it can help us to understand our world, develop critical thinking skills, and live better lives.
Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will have an understanding of:
1. Important ancient philosophers and their theories
2. The impact ancient philosophies have on the development of the field and our understanding of it today
3. Philosophy as it relates to religion and the divine
4. Logic, theories of knowledge, theories of reality, sphere sovereignty, religious experience, the Problem of Evil
Assignments
1. Watch each video and read all assignments.
2. Take notes on the lectures.
3. Complete the quizzes. You will be allowed to retake all quizzes once, if you desire.
Please note that the majority of the readings for the course are created based on Professor Clouser's videos and can be considered enhanced and refined transcripts. They are intended as a second way for students to intake and study the very rich lectures.
Quizzes
Quizzes will allow for two attempts. The average of these two attempts will be your final grade for the given quiz.
Important note: Once all course quizzes have been taken AND the final feedback quiz has been completed, you will receive a final grade for the course, which will be recorded on your transcript. If a course allows more than one attempt, but you've completed at least one attempt on each quiz and submitted the final feedback, thus receiving a final grade, you will not be able to update that final grade by attempting a quiz again afterward. Once your final grade is recorded on your transcript, it will not be updated based on additional quiz attempts.
Grading Scale
A 95-100% A- 90-94% 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%
Your average for the course must be at least 60%. Otherwise, you will fail the class and will receive no credit.Deadline
You have 180 days to finish the course. Complete all assignments before the final deadline, or you will be automatically unenrolled, and all coursework will be removed. You will have to start over and take the class again to receive credit. -
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