The literal meaning of the word "philosophy" is "love of wisdom." Keep that in mind throughout the course of this class. Many of you might pride yourself in your ability to master every test you take. But philosophy is about wisdom over knowledge, understanding over facts. Yes, you will have to learn specific pieces of information and know the names of certain stuffy old people, but above all else, this is class will be about ideas.
Easy. All you have to do is know what you think, and ace in the hole, right? But do you? Do you know what you truly believe? Do you know why? Can you back up those beliefs with evidence from your own life? Do you know how to explain those beliefs to others and define them according to great thinkers of the past? You will. At least, you will begin to, because more understanding undoubtedly leads to more questions. By the end of your life, when you realize how little you actually know, then you will have become quite wise indeed.
I look forward to a fun and challenging semester of thoughtful discussions, respectful debates, and extensive questioning.
3 comments:
very well put Deck, i liked it. i daresay i would like to be in this class. sounds interesting...perhaps next year though.
Is this the righ place to post questions relating to the Philosophy test? Does this place really exist? According to an idealist it would exist to me because i'm not experiencing it but it would exist if God were able to experience the internet?
Michael and all students. Comment on the new post. Let me know if you want Jeopardy! emailed to you. Also, I seriously have trouble trying to think about "where" the internet exists. There are some pretty giant servers around. Let's hope to avoid a Fight Club-like removal of the "system."
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