Philosophy -Discussion

Post length: This depends on the problem you are discussing. Two paragraphs as a general rule is a good minimum length. This is your chance to discuss and work through the problems or ideas you have. It is much easier to learn philosophy if you are able to communicate it (even if your interpretation is wrong). We are not here to memorize a bunch of old dead white men’s ideas. We are here to work through them and see what sense we can make of them.

Multiple posts or questions: If you have more than one topic to discuss (this definitely will help you with your homework), In cases where you are posting multiple ideas, I would suggest keeping the length down as much as possible.

Discussion prompt: 

This week, we read about classical metaphysical theories of reality. Most of what we covered in the text is about defining ‘substance’, and trying to figure out how to think about our reality. You are not required to write about these topics, but here are some possible discussion prompts:

• Differing Views: There are many ways to describe reality. Which of the theories we encountered in the readings do you find most interesting? most problematic? Why?
• Difficulty of Interpretation: These are strange and difficult theories. How do you understand (for example) Plato’s Theory of Forms? How do you understand the difference between things in the visible realm, and the Forms? What kinds of strategies did you use to help you understand a specific idea? (Discussions about strategies for understanding the reading are especially helpful. These allow you to formulate your understanding of a topic, and help others clarify their own views).