Required Texts:

Grade Distribution:

Due Dates:

Course Policies:

Attendance and Participation:

Attendance is especially important in an accelerated summer class.  Because of this, attendance is mandatory; students who miss more than two classes will suffer a grade penalty.  In addition, participation is quite essential to philosophy classes in general; students should come prepared to discuss the readings in detail-- to offer their reasoned views on the material, and to ask questions when something is unclear.  To this end, you are expected to read the material assigned before each class.  It helps your retention and understanding of the (sometimes difficult) material to read it, hear what I have to say about it, and discuss it.  I really want students to understand the material and get something out of this class (this is why I’m so concerned about attendance and participation).  It is also your responsibility to take careful notes during class, and not just when I write something on the board (I may write nothing on the board during lecture; but you still need to make sure you understand and remember what I’ve said).

Internet/Email Accounts:

If you do not already have an account, please get one (they are available free to all UIC students).  Check the class website regularly for updates, announcements, and handouts, especially if you’ve missed class.  Note that this also means there’s no excuse for not having a handout, or not knowing what you’re supposed to read or write for class, or not being able to reach me.  I check my e-mail everyday.

Late Penalties:

Late paper outlines and late papers will lose a third of a grade for each day past the due date (if your paper or outline is late, please contact me as soon as possible so I know when you’ll be turning it in).  Extensions for paper outlines and papers may be granted if you ask me more than 2 days before the assignment is due, you provide a good reason for the extension, and you make arrangements with me to turn your paper in at a specific time.  This will be treated as your new deadline, after which your paper will lose a third of a grade each day that it is late. You must complete all assignments in order to pass this course.