Phil 1300E 2008-2009
Introduction to Philosophy
Second Essay Assignment
Assignment: Answer one of the following three questions.
1. Identify and explain the main differences between Descartes’ rationalism and Locke’s empiricism. Which view best accounts for how knowledge is acquired?
2. What is the mind-body problem? How does Taylor address this problem? Appealing to one other author we have studied, raise and evaluate an objection to Taylor’s account.
3. According to Hume, what is the problem of induction? What are some of the implications of this problem for science? Must we solve the problem of induction before we can have scientific knowledge?
Due: Friday, November 28th.
Length: 4-5 pages, i.e. approximately 1000-1250 words.
Turnitin: In accordance with the policy of the Department, essays must be submitted to turnitin.com. Instructions for using Turnitin are attached. The deadline for submission is your essay due date at midnight.
Late Penalties: Essays (either the hard copy or the turnitin submission) that are late will receive a 3% penalty per calendar day. Extensions will not be granted without serious cause.
Format: Print your essays double-sided and do not include a title page. Be sure to staple your essays. Include on the first page your name and student number. Do not submit your essays in folders. Use 12-point font, standard margins, and page numbers. Double-space your essay, and do not put an extra line-space between paragraphs.
Criteria: Marking criteria are attached.
Marking Criteria (PHIL 1300E)
The papers will be graded according to the following criteria:
UNDERSTANDING: How well do you explain and make judicious use of the relevant textbook material? How well do you explain the issues involved?
ARGUMENT: Have you used cogent arguments to support your position? Do the claims you make in different parts of the paper follow from one another and are they consistent?
ORGANIZATION: Is your paper organized, with a plan revealed in the introduction and followed? Does each part of your paper take you closer to establishing your thesis?
CLARITY: Is your position clear, with an explicitly articulated thesis, and is your paper clearly written overall? Could another student at the same level who is not enrolled in the course understand the paper? Does your paper answer the question asked?
STYLE: Does your paper use correct grammar and syntax? Have you followed the guidelines for proper format? Have you cited your sources where necessary, following a recognized style?