Discuss and critically evaluate Descartes’ proof that God must exist. That is; fully explain the responses and replies to this ‘proof’. Is the critic successful in his efforts to refute Descartes? Why or why not?
Possible topics: Again, please do not feel limited to these topics. You are encouraged to write on what interests you that is related to the general themes of philosophy and ethics.
Discuss Plato’s Myth of the Metals or Noble Lie. What does it illustrate about justice in the city and in the individual? Include a discussion of the ‘three waves’. Could Plato’s suggestions be implemented today? Why or why not?
Discuss the allegory of the cave at the beginning of Book VII. What does it represent? How does one get out? How can the cave illustrate the role of the philosopher? Give specific instances of the relation of the cave metaphor to today.
Discuss Aristotle’s views on virtue and how they relate to the good life. Be sure to give some specific examples. What is the value of Aristotle’s notion of virtue today?
Contrast Plato’s views about Ethics and Philosophy with those of Aristotle, focusing on the theme of vulnerability. Which approach do you find more plausible and why?
Watch the video about Education in Finland and think about the video we watched earlier about the United States and their rankings in the world in terms of education. Would the Finnish model work here? Why or why not? How does this relate to Plato?
Contrast the ideas and archetypes of the role models/heroes presented thus far. How does the Classical Greek hero differ from Plato’s hero? Why is this significant? Be specific in your approach by using examples where appropriate.
Discuss The Divided Line metaphor found at the end of Book VI. What does this say about Plato’s approach to Epistemology? Do you agree with Plato’s approach? Why or why not? Be sure to include a discussion of the Forms and how one grasps them.
Discuss and critically evaluate Descartes’ proof that God must exist. That is; fully explain the responses and replies to this ‘proof’. Is the critic successful in his efforts to refute Descartes? Why or why not?
Discuss and evaluate the major differences between Hobbes and Rousseau. Try to be specific when possible. Rousseau also writes, “…it was necessary to show himself to be something other than what he in fact was. Being something and appearing to be something became two completely different things…” How does this observation relate to what society in essence “trains” us to become? Give examples where appropriate.
Discuss the theme of alienation and self-identity as it relates to the definition of manhood in the Hip Hop documentary film we watched in class. OR Discuss the theme of becoming desensitized to violence and sexism as it relates to the portrayal of women in the film.
Does music reflect on a culture or contribute to the culture?
Do role models or people of power or influence have any moral obligation to those they influence? Discuss at least one person of influence that has “done the right thing” in your mind that as a result, has perhaps had a damaging effect on their image or persona in some circles. What did this person do, and why do you think they “did the right thing”? (This topic can be modified in a variety of ways to fit your interests while still maintaining a discussion of the central question)