PHIL 271 - Philosophical Writing (3 credits)

(Prereq: ENGL 101 and a grade of ‘C’ or better in any other PHIL course, or permission of the instructor) A first course in philosophical methods, the aim of this course is to introduce students to the skills necessary to communicate in philosophy. The course will focus on techniques of active reading; summarizing arguments both in writing and orally; preparing abstracts, summaries, and responses to readings; writing argumentative and critical essays; presenting philosophical arguments, positions, problems and papers; thinking critically and creatively about philosophical problems, formulating original philosophical responses to problems, and using appropriate reference materials and methods. Classroom time will be organized around small and large group discussion, peer review sessions, and minimal lecture. The content employed to convey these essentials of philosophical discourse will vary by instructor.