Philosophy
Semester Elective Unit
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course. Course Description
This course 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
- How do we know about the world and ourselves?
- What are the common ways in which arguments are constructed and how can they be critically evaluated?
- What is the relationship between the arts, the sciences, the humanities and truth?
Areas of Study
- Critical Thinking and Argumentation: identifying assumptions, premises, warrants and conclusions, introduction to logical reasoning and logical fallacies. Hence, constructing valid arguments.
- Mind and Body: Are mind and body separate? With what degree of certainty can we know reality? What makes us ourselves?
- Areas of Knowledge:
- Science: the scientific method, progress in science, pseudo-science
- Humanities: reliability of historical, economic and psychological knowledge
- Art: relationship between art and truth, creation of meaning through art and standards of argumentation about art
Assessment
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Task
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Description
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Critical Analysis
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A critical analysis of arguments within a contemporary issue.
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Essay
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A reflective essay 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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