Purpose
The purpose of the Opening Discussion is to allow us to directly think about a philosophical question or problem without the bias that might result from prior knowledge of the ideas and arguments of important philosophers.
This direct approach to a philosophical question or problem sets the stage for our inquiry into the philosophical theories and arguments covered in the module. It furthermore is the first step toward a greater self-awareness of our own individual intellectual biases and assumptions.
The Opening Discussion MUST be completed at the beginning of the module during the timeframe specified in the course calendar. Please make sure to carefully follow the directions provided and adhere to the deadlines specified in the course calendar.
Directions
Click on ‘Reply’ to create your Opening Discussion POST in response to the prompts below. In your post, please address the following:
- What do you consider requirements for rational explanation (as opposed to irrational or non-rational assertions)? Make sure to be specific and carefully explain your reasoning.
- Please provide one concrete example of (what you consider) a rational explanation and one concrete example of (what you consider) an irrational or non-rational explanation. Make sure to be specific and carefully explain your reasoning.
Respond to at least two of your classmates. In order to respond to a classmate, open the classmate’s post and click ‘Reply’. Carefully explain why you agree or disagree with their examples of rational and/or non-rational explanations. Make sure to be specific and carefully explain your reasoning.
You must create your POST before you can reply to your classmates. Therefore, you should create your POST a day or two before the discussion deadline.
Your initial post should be about 300-400 words in length, and your responses to classmates should each be about 200-300 words in length, but feel free to be as detailed as you wish.
Your post and your responses must be written in proper English (correct spelling and grammar, and appropriate style). It is recommended to write your post and responses using a word processing program and copy and paste the completed post and responses. This will avoid losing work in case of internet outage, etc. You are encouraged to comment on your classmates feedback to your initial post and keep the (civilized!) discussion going
*Im going to post two pictures of my colleagues discussion and I want a reply to these discussion because it’s a part of the assignment .
