Philosophy
Semester Elective Unit
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course.
Course Description
This course explores questions such as when we should doubt beliefs, what makes good art, and issues around animal ethics. It will equip students with critical thinking skills of reasoning and evaluation. It will introduce them to the subject of Philosophy, which is both the foundation and the ‘glue’ for all disciplines and a study that reaps enormous benefits for the individual and society. Students also gain insights into the IB Theory of Knowledge course.
Essential Questions
- What are the common ways in which arguments are constructed and how can they be critically evaluated?
- What is beauty?
- How can we determine what good art is?
- When is it rational to doubt your beliefs?
- Is it ethical to eat meat?
Areas of Study
- Critical Thinking and Argumentation: identifying assumptions, premises, warrants and conclusions, introduction to logical reasoning and logical fallacies. Hence, constructing valid arguments.
Assessment
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Task
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Description
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Argument Test
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A critical analysis of arguments within a contemporary issue.
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Reflection
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A piece of reflective writing exploring issues in the core topics.
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Harkness Discussion
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An oral dialogue about a contemporary issue that utilises critical analysis skills and knowledge of the core topics.
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Semester Examination
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Students undertake an examination at the conclusion of the course.
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