Philosphy Diss 1

Discussion 1

Title: Philosophical Themes in Borges’ “Immortal” – Discussion Assignment

Instructions:

1. Read the short story “Immortal” by Jorge Luis Borges:

2. Provide an initial post (minimum 250 words) addressing the questions below.

3. Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts (minimum 100 words each).

Initial Post Prompt (25 points):

In your initial post, address the following questions:

1. What key philosophical themes does Borges explore in “Immortal”? Identify at least two and explain how they are presented in the story.

2. How does the concept of immortality in the story challenge our usual understanding of human existence and purpose?

3. Analyze the narrator’s statement: “There is nothing very remarkable about being immortal; with the exception of mankind, all creatures are immortal, for they know nothing of death.” What philosophical implications does this have for our understanding of mortality and consciousness?

4. The story suggests that given infinite time, all things will happen. How does this idea relate to philosophical concepts of determinism, free will, and the nature of time (you are welcome to look in the textbook or online to have some sense of these topics)?

5. Discuss how the story’s portrayal of the Immortals and their city relates to philosophical questions about the meaning of life and the pursuit of knowledge.

Response Posts (10 points each):

In your responses to classmates, consider the following:

Do you agree or disagree with their interpretation of the philosophical themes? Why?

Can you offer a different perspective or philosophical concept that relates to their analysis?

How might the ideas discussed in their post apply to real-world philosophical or ethical dilemmas?

What additional questions about existence, time, or knowledge does their post raise for you?

Evaluation Criteria:

Depth of philosophical analysis

Clear understanding of the story’s themes

Application of philosophical concepts

Quality of writing and argumentation

Thoughtful and constructive responses to classmates

Remember to support your arguments with clear reasoning and, where applicable, references to philosophical concepts or thinkers we’ve studied in class. Be respectful of your classmates’ viewpoints and strive to engage in meaningful philosophical dialogue.