Brandon Gillette

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Identify and explain basic philosophical definitions and concepts.

2. Identify, explain, and analyze classical theories of metaphysics, epistemology and ethics.

3. Demonstrate logical and critical thinking abilities by constructing sound arguments and evaluating traditional and contemporary philosophical arguments.

4. Apply philosophical methods to contemporary problems and questions and evaluate the arguments and theories given in response.

Instructor information:

• Dr. Brandon Gillette
• Office Hours: by appointment
• Office: CB 209H
• Email: [email protected] (you may also use myMCCKC email, but this email also goes to my phone so I am likely to see your email sooner)
• Note: Email is the best way to contact me. A distant second is the department mailbox (if you can even find it).You may also talk to me or email to set up an appointment.

Evaluation:

3 Exams: 

• Exam 1 (Epistemology) 25% of total grade
• Paper (Argument and Proof) 20% of total grade
• Exam 2 (Metaphysics) 20% of total grade
• Final Exam (Value, comprehensive) 30% of total grade

Attendance: 5% of total grade

Course information, including the assignment schedule, is available at www.bgillette.com

Grading Scale:

The numerical scores corresponding with the letter grades will be as follows. When final scores are calculated, I will round to the nearest whole number. Grades will be posted on the Learning Management Software

• 100-90 A
• 89-80 B
• 79-70 C
• 69-60 D
• 59-0 F

Attendance:

I will keep track of attendance for my records.  I will not accept exams, papers, or assignments outside of class (see Lateness/Make-Up policy below). Poor exam grades are likely if you do not attend regularly. I do realize that, on occasion, some things are more important than class. I do not need to know what these things are in your individual cases unless some arrangements between us are necessary.  Due to the pace of a summer course, regular attendance is even more important.

Make-up Policy:

Make-up exams will be permitted in extreme circumstances at the discretion of the instructor, and may be offered for reduced credit. The earlier I am notified about an absence due to extreme circumstances on an exam day, the more likely it is that a make-up exam will be allowed.  In the event that you know you will miss an exam day, you may be permitted to take an exam early, provided I am notified well in advance.

Course Text:

Bonjour and Baker’s “Philosophical Problems”, Other readings available online

Academic Honesty:

I will abide very strictly to the College’s policies on academic honesty. Violations of academic honesty policies can result in loss of credit for exams or assignments, and in some circumstances can result in loss of credit for the course.