Course Description
Basic problems and issues in the theory of knowledge, such as: What is truth? Can we acquire knowledge independently of experience? How can we justify our beliefs? Are inductive generalizations justified?
Athena Title
Theory of Knowledge
Prerequisite
PHIL 2010 or PHIL 2010H or PHIL 2010E or PHIL 2020 or PHIL 2020H or PHIL 2020E or PHIL 2030 or PHIL 2030H or PHIL 2030E or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
A mastery of important concepts, positions, and arguments in the theory of knowledge; the ability to read and understand historical and contemporary sources; and the ability to write clear and reasoned discussion essays. Communicating effectively through writing and speech, relevant use of the computer, and critical thinking are all stressed. During the course the student should be improving in each of these skill areas.
Topical Outline
Topics may include: I. The concept of knowledge II. Problems of justification III. The problem of induction IV. Skepticism V. A priori knowledge
Syllabus