Essay 3 and Response 3:
Now that we are nearing the end of the course surely you have a better about what makes philosophy philosophy. In fact, given that you have made this far, you probably have a better understanding of philosophy than most. For your fourth essay you will be exploring and explaining the philosophical process in your own words. There are two options to choose from. Make sure you indicate which option you have chosen in the title of your essay. For example:
John Smith Essay 3 Option 2
Option 1: Philosophy’s Pragmatic Value
Part 1: What is philosophy?
What is meant by “philosophy” – particularly philosophy as a pursuit of truth that takes place in the context of a process of clarity and accuracy of thought. Make sure you explain why this process is of central importance to philosophy.
Part 2: What practical value does philosophy have?
Now that you have experienced philosophy in a classroom setting, explain how philosophy applies to your life. You may want to use a current situation you are involved in or you may want to explain how it will apply to your life in the future – say as a parent or in your career. Either way, make sure you clearly and adequately explain the connection between philosophy and the situation in a manner which helps clarify the practical value of philosophy.
Option 2: Philosophy and Paradigms
Part 1: What is philosophy?
What is meant by “philosophy” – particularly philosophy as as a pursuit of truth that takes place in the context of a process of clarity and accuracy of thought. Make sure you explain why this process is of such central importance to philosophy.
Part 2: How do paradigms of thought relate to philosophy?
Now that you have experienced philosophy through a comparative survey of multi-cultural paradigms, explain the relationship between philosophy and paradigms of thought. Explain in your own words how our “paradigmatic approach” to philosophical ideas and worldviews relates to the overall goal of philosophy.
