Heusser Philosophy 100 Handout #1a

Class Presentations:

Presentation Format: Option 1: Write about 2 pages covering a theory associated with some philosopher. You will present your findings to the class in 4-5 minutes. Groups may take a few minutes longer. I will let you know if you have a minute left.

1. Biography: The first portion (a paragraph or two) should be about the times the individual lived in and events that may have shaped that philosopher’s life. For example, if you signed up for Aristotle on “The Good”, then your first paragraph might have: “Aristotle was born in 384 B.C. and lived in Greece”, etc. Anecdotes are encouraged. The biographical information should include who, when, where, and any other information you think the class might find interesting. This portion can be minimized for any living philosophers.
2. Philosophical Content: Your next section might explain what “the Good” was for Aristotle: “For Aristotle, the supreme good is happiness. Human good is the activity of the soul in accordance with intellectual and moral virtue”. You are expected to be more of an editor in this section. Although creative explorations are encouraged, it is perfectly acceptable to completely cite from 2 or more internet sources (including Magee) as long as you give credit to each source.
3. Your Thoughts: In the final section you should explain and substantively evaluate your findings. What did you get out of this? What did these ideas mean to you? What did you find meaningful or relevant? What critique can be or has been offered? The first two portions can be completely cited but the third should include your ideas and thoughts (although you may also include criticisms from other philosophers you come across).

Option 2: Forget biography. Focus exclusively on the Tittle text. I will list some “Thought Experiments” in SG 1b. Your paper and presentation should explain the particular problem, issue, or experiment. You may also attempt to explain the significance of the issue. Finally, you should discuss a possible answer or consequence to some answer. Have fun!

Notes: Think of yourself as a researcher and editor. You should peruse the relevant material and choose what the class might find interesting.

· If the presentation is done by two, then they should equally divide assignment (handout and presentation). Both can work on each part or two portions can be individually worked on. You will grade your own effort collectively on one gradesheet (SG #1c) Evaluate your research, handout, and presentation of the topic, not your speaking skills. Be sure to solicit questions from your audience as well.

· Please make about 7 word-processed photocopies for each row in class. This class handout can either be the same as the one turned in to me or can be a one-page shortened (bulleted points, or otherwise) handout. Students at the front of the row should pass back presentation handouts to other students in their row after viewing. Students in back rows: Please recycle leftover presentations or give to me.

· Alternatives to passing out class handouts include a creative poster or your own slideshow or ???, however at least one 2 page handout must be made for me.

· You will grade your own effort. Staple the Presentation grade sheet (SG 1c) to the front of the copy you give to me before your presentation. No title page is necessary.

· It is suggested that you use internet resource material for your Option 1 research, however all resources must be cited in footnotes or a bibliography. See my philosophy links at http://socialscience.cypresscollege.edu/~philosophy/links.shtml under “General Philosophy Interest”. You may include footnotes on the bottom of each page or place your citations at the end but it is not necessary to have a separate bibliography page.