Fall 2009
Philosophy 110--Introduction to Philosophy
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 11:00-12:15 pm
308 Comer Hall

                    Professor: Michael Patton, 201D Comer Hall
                    Phone Number: Office: 665-6434

• Course description: Catalog Description: Basic concepts, distinctions and theories used in
  philosophical thinking. Emphasis on reasoning and critical thinking as applied to problems in philosophy.

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  We will study the works of several historically significant thinkers in this course, starting in ancient Greece with Plato and extending throughout history up to our own century.  By studying their thoughts on the fundamental questions of philosophy and life, we will see the ways in which these questions have been and could be fruitfully explored and answered.  By becoming familiar with these issues, you will begin to see which answers or styles of inquiry appeal most to you.
  I think the most interesting and instructive way to address these problems is by asking some of the central questions of philosophy and looking at the answers that have been given to these questions throughout history.  The main issues we will study in this class are:  The Existence of God, Perception and Knowledge, Free Will and Determinism, and The Relationship Between Mind and Body.