Paper Topics I
for
Knowledge and Reality

Philosophy 120

Assignment: Please choose ONE of the following paper topics. Papers should be 4-6 pages in length, due in class Friday, October 2. I am flexible about paper topics and length only if you discuss it with me first. Rough drafts are strongly encouraged, but not mandatory. I will be accepting rough drafts no later than Wednesday, September 30. Also, drafts will only be accepted in person, so please make an appointmnet to see me. No late papers will be accepted. Electronic submissions required; additional hard copies optional. Go here for some advice on writing a philosophy paper. Please email me or talk to me if you have any questions.


1. Explain Descartes' project in his first and second meditations in Meditations of First Philosophy. What is he trying to do? How does he go about trying to do it? Make sure to explain (i) his methods
    of doubt and (ii) how he applies the method (i.e., the three skeptical scenarios he considers in the First Meditation). What does Descartes think he has accomplished by the middle of the second
    Meditation? Make sure to discuss the cogito in sufficient detail. Do you agree? Why or why not? Critically discuss.     


2. Discuss the difference between Direct Realism, Indirect Realism, and Idealism, clearly defining and laying out each view of perception. Make sure to give arguments for and arguments against    
    each view. Which view do you think is the most plausible, and why? Make sure to support your claims, being sensitive to discussion and objections that we raised in class.


3. Defend Locke's view of perception. Be sure to include a discussion of primary and secondary qualities, as well as arguments for Indirect Realism. What advantages does this view have over
    alternatives (Direct Realism or Idealism)? Are there any objections to this view? If so, what are some responses on behalf of Locke? Critically discuss.


 4. Defend Berkeley's Idealism. Be sure to include a discussion of the arguments given in Three Dialogues between Hylas and Philonous. What advantages does this view have over alternatives (Direct
    Realism or Indirect Realism)? Are there any objections to this view? If so, what are some responses on behalf of Berkeley? Critically discuss.


 5. Carefully lay out and explain the Problem of Induction, either old or new. Why should someone find the problem worrisome? What are some ways one might go about trying to answer the
    problem? Critically discuss.


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