Philosophy of Film (Fall 2008) - Late-term Exam

Answer three (3) questions. All key terms, theories, and named objections must be explained.

Answer one question from 1-2.

1. Evaluate the Causation Argument for the claim that photography cannot be art.

2. Evaluate the Aesthetic Interest Argument for the claim that photography cannot be art.

Answer one question from 3-4.

3. Evaluate McGinn's explanation for how it is that audiences are not mystified by editing. You should consider Arnheim's discussion of gravity.

4. Evaluate McGinn's reply to the "You Yourself" objection.

Answer one question from 5-6.

5. Evaluate Walton's claim that Charles' quasi-fear results from his make-believing that he is in danger.

6. Evaluate the Illusion Theory of fictional engagement.

Note: In order to evaluate a theory, you must first explain the theory. When explaining a counter-example to a definition, you need to specify whether the example shows that a proposed condition is not necessary, not sufficient, or neither. If you are evaluating an argument, you need to build up the argument and then show where it might go wrong. To build up an argument, you must do more than merely offer a formalization. You must explain the argument. Typically, showing where an argument goes wrong will require arguing that one of the premises is false. Be sure to consider obvious, compelling replies to your objections. If you think an argument is good, then you will need to defend it against the strongest objections that you can think of.

Due Date

Tuesday 11/11

Length

The complete midterm should be no more than 1,800 words. This is approximately 6 pages double-spaced with Arial 12 point font.

Format

The midterm must be typed. It should be double spaced. It should have one inch margins. You should use a 12 point font. I prefer Arial, since it is easy to read. Please follow the general paper and exam instructions under the "course documents / writing" section on Blackboard.

Procedure

You are required to hand in a paper copy at the start of class on the due date. In addition you must submit the midterm through TurnItIn via Blackboard by 11:59 pm on the due date. TurnItIn is a plagiarism detection tool. It will compare your paper against others available online, in journals, submitted in this class, Temple, and from all other universities that use the software.

Note: Plagiarism will result in a failing grade in the class, not just on this assignment.