Assignments
In this course we will try to restate, interpret, and evaluate the ideas presented in our texts using argument maps. An argument map does just what it sounds like-- allows you to create a visual map of the argument. We will use the Mindmup 2.0 software (see Resources for more information).
Here is an example created by Simon Cullen. Here is an introduction to the lingo and ideas of argument maps.
I encourage you to try to create an argument map for every reading. You can submit your original argument map here before class the day the reading is due. I will grade up to 5 argument maps for credit towards objectives. When you create an accurate argument map, you demonstrate that you can correctly identify and restate an argument from our text (objectives C1 and C2).
For some of the more difficult texts, I will provide a template or fill-in-the blank version of an argument map to help guide your reading (check the Argument Maps page for templates). Submit your argument maps here.
Even if you are not confident that you got it right, it's useful to come to class having completed a draft of an argument map. In class, you will work with one or two partners to revise your maps; we will then discuss and create a map all together.
Discussion
To master the fourth core objective (C4), you must exhibit high quality engagement with the professor and your peers in class throughout the semester. Prerequisites for this are regular attendance and active participation (active listening and speaking in turn, helpful collaboration on argument maps, coming prepared to class).
I expect you to engage thoughtfully- giving me and others your undivided attention, preparing for class with thorough reading, being mindful of how often and long you speak relative to others, and communicating your thoughts clearly by choosing your words carefully in advance.
I expect you to engage respectfully—taking a posture of readiness to learn from me and others, listening closely to others’ comments and questions, giving due recognition to your peers for their insights and ideas, and responding directly or incorporating the comments of your peers in your own comments and questions.
Short Papers
The short paper assignment is a requirement for the course, and provides an opportunity to show that you have mastered objectives C1, C2, C3, S1, S2, or S3.
You will write 2 short papers that build on one another. Each student must complete every stage in order to advance to the next stage.
Stage 1: The first paper (~250 words) will discuss the author's view (C1) and restate the argument for it (C2) in clear prose. You will meet with the professor to pitch your big-picture idea for the final paper. You should bring an argument map for the argument in the first paper to the meeting so that you can get and record feedback. (Due February 28)
Stage 2: The second paper draft will include the first paper and add ~500 words. In the new 500 words, the paper should engage with the author philosophically, either by drawing connections with other of the author's views or other authors' views/arguments (C3), by identifying an interpretive issue and ably defending your position on it (S1), by explaining the significance of the view/argument historically or today (S2), or by persuasively challenging the view/argument (S3). You will bring a draft to workshop with a peer on the last day of class (due April 25).
Stage 3: Submit the final version (~750 words) to the professor before midnight on April 30. You should include any written peer feedback to show how you engaged with and responded to constructive criticism.
The final version of the short paper will be evaluated based on how well you motivate the question addressed in the argument by showing why it matters, the clarity of your explanation of the argument, the accuracy of your interpretation and the evidence you provide for it, the philosophical quality of your engagement with the argument, and technical quality of the writing.
Primary texts should be cited using the edition selected for the class on the Reading Schedule and using Stephanus or Bekker page numbers. If you use any secondary sources, you must add a properly formatted bibliography and in-text citations with MLA, APA, or Chicago Style.
Independent Study
In ancient Greek, the term σχολή (from which we derive "scholar") means leisure-- and is synonymous with "study." The goal of this assignment is to immerse yourself in a practice that the ancient Greeks thought of as a paradigmatic leisurely activity. This is an optional assignment you may complete to make progress towards objectives C1-C3 and S2.
To complete the assignment, you will need to go to the Marx or Spring Hill library in person, find a book in ancient philosophy that is not part of our course, and spend roughly an hour of leisure time reading it and thinking about it. You may need to go back more than once.
Write a reflection that either engages the main idea you got from the book, how the thinker supported the idea, or how the idea compares with those of the thinkers we are studying. Submit your reflection to the instructor.
A passing reflection will be assigned a presentation date based on when the material is most pertinent to what we will do in class. You will then read or talk through the reflection to the class.