Introduction to Philosophy Assignment (50 points)

Total length: at least 2 pages, double-spaced

Part 1: Key Figure Summary (15 points)

Choose 1 of the following key philosophical figures discussed in the chapter and write a brief (3-4 sentence) summary:

• Socrates
• Plato
• Aristotle
• Thales
• Pythagoras
• Confucius

Your summary should include:

• When and where they lived
• Their main philosophical ideas or contributions
• Why they are considered important in the history of philosophy

Part 2: Reflection (20 points)

In about half a page, reflect on ONE of the following questions:

1. What does it mean to live an “examined life” according to Socrates? Do you agree that an unexamined life is not worth living? Why or why not?
2. Compare and contrast Socrates’ harm principle with the Indian concept of ahimsa. What are the similarities and differences?
3. How does philosophy as a discipline attempt to “understand how things in the broadest possible sense of the term hang together in the broadest possible sense of the term” (Sellars)? Give an example of how philosophers try to create this broad understanding.
4. Of the philosophical methods discussed (logic, conceptual analysis, thought experiments, etc.), which do you think is most useful for arriving at truth? Explain your reasoning.

Part 3: Areas of Philosophy and Personal Relevance (15 points)

In about half a page: a) Briefly summarize three major areas of philosophy (e.g., metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, logic, aesthetics). b) Choose one of these areas and explain how it relates to your own life, major, or future profession. Provide a specific example to illustrate this connection.

Rubric:

Part 1: Key Figure Summary (15 points)

• Accurate historical information (3 points)
• Clear explanation of main ideas (7 points)
• Discussion of importance/influence (3 points)
• Writing clarity and concision (2 points)

Part 2: Reflection (20 points)

• Thoughtful engagement with question (8 points)
• Use of relevant examples/evidence (5 points)
• Clear argumentation and reasoning (5 points)
• Writing clarity and organization (2 points)

Part 3: Areas of Philosophy and Personal Relevance (15 points)

• Accurate summary of three areas of philosophy (6 points)
• Clear explanation of personal relevance (5 points)
• Specific and relevant example (2 points)
• Writing clarity and organization (2 points)