Spring 2009 Philosophy of Human Nature Paper Topics

Topics for First Philosophical Analysis Paper

Choose one of the following topics for the first paper. Your finished paper should be 4-5 pages, typed, double spaced.

1. Outline your own philosophical theory of love, either in response to Plato, or by giving your own account. In either case, make sure your theory addresses some of the basic issues in a philosophical theory of love: what kind of thing is love, what role does it play in our lives, and how is it related to the good.

2. What is the basis for certain knowledge of the world. What are the relative roles of empirical experience and rational thought? Consider problems faced by competing epistemological positions and provide your own reasoned statement of the best way to handle these problems.