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Philosophy (HZT4U) Assignment # 2 Epistemology Dialogue

HZT4U 2011-12 Assignment #2 Epistemology Dialogue

Task: Choose a real life dilemma or decision about which two people could believably disagree on HOW to arrive at a solution. (See list below for some suggestions. Check with your teacher ahead of time if you are choosing a topic NOT on the list.) Sample student papers from previous years are available for you to view as exemplars. Research various epistemological methods, using class discussion, text, handouts, internet, etc. Identify one philosopher who represents each side (even though you should NOT refer directly to the names of any specific thinkers during the dialogue). Brainstorm points that can be used for each side, plus supporting evidence and reasoning. Develop point form notes for each side. Compose a dialogue in the form of a debate or friendly argument in a realistic situation. The speakers should not be philosophers, but rather intelligent, modern individuals. Please dignify the discussion by avoiding obvious fallacies. Try to give each side the strongest position you can, even if one possesses a stronger argument, or a viewpoint that you personally do (or do not) support. To keep it intelligent. Each speaker should first try to refute the opponents previous point, before making a new attack point. It is best if the discussion is about something not too abstract, rather a question of knowledge relevant to life. Key reminder: the discussion and difference of opinion needs to be about the method of how to they should come to know rather, than about the content of what they know. You may include a narrator (as in a short story) or stage directions (as in a play) to clarify actions & setting. You may also decide to include a 3rd character who arrives with insights that blend both sides to arrive at a middle ground solution, avoiding either extreme. The goal of this assignment is to demonstrate: a) that you have understood the reasoning behind two different epistemological methods b) that you can apply reasonable supporting arguments to support differing methods c) that you can express ideas clearly d) that you can create believable characters using dialogue format.
Suggested topics:

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How can I know if she (he) loves me? (Is reason or experience the best source of knowledge?) Should I believe? Can my knowledge of God ever be certain? (Skepticism vs rationalism) Are senses to be trusted or does theoretical science provide us with the best route to truth? Why is that child so good at climbing? (Is some knowledge innate or is it all learned?) Who, or what, am I really? (Can people know themselves or the world as it really is?) What should I do after high school, travel, work or school? HOW should I decide? Should I visit the palm reader? (What value is there to non-rational methods of knowing?) We disagree. Can we both be right? (Is truth subjective or objective, private or universal?)

Philosophy (HZT4U)

Assignment # 2 Epistemology Dialogue Evaluation Rubric Student: ______________________________ Date Submitted: ________________________ Knowledge/Understanding: 30% Shows understanding of two contrasting epistemological methods Demonstrates awareness of two sides of a real life, controversial issue Understands elements that make for a believable, intelligent drama Effective use of dialogue format/stage directions to Thinking 30% Presents thoughtful supporting arguments to defend each point of view Characters respond to one another in a realistic, intelligent manner Argument arrives at a reasonable, balanced conclusion Argument develops, so characters have shifted/evolved in response to one another Communication 20% Correct basic language mechanics, grammar, spelling Language usage has the style & flow of natural spoken English Believable characters in a genuine, epistemological dilemma Application 20% Realistically brings an idea from abstract philosophy into practical, daily life Creative use of ideas/imagery/action/humour to enhance concepts Format and aesthetic presentation Total _____/100 Teacher Comments:

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