| |
Introduction to Philosophy |
Please write an 800 word précis of the extract “The Problem of Free Will” by W.T. Stace that appears in the Reader ( Reason and Responsibility ). Then write 400 more words giving as clearly as you can you own assessment of the claim that ‘free will means being undetermined by causes’ (last words of the extract).
In preparing the précis you may find it difficult not to copy chunks out. Don't! Beginning students often have this difficulty, and this exercise is designed in part to help you discover the alternative, which is to read your source, understand it, and then express what you have understood, speaking for yourself and not as a mouthpiece for somebody else.
What we are trying to do in designing this task is:-
• to give you practice in getting an understanding of a philosophical argument
• to give you practice in the key skill of being able to summarize clearly and
accurately what somebody else has written.
• to give you practice in formulating your own argument clearly and succinctly
• and thus to help you develop your own thinking on this topic.
The deadline is 5pm, Wed. 10th November 2004 (Week 6 of Michaelmas Term).. The completed assignments should be posted in the Part I essay box, by the notice board in the Institute foyer (Furness C Floor, opposite C22). Use the cover sheet attached which asks you to fill in your name, college, seminar group (e.g. lOOG etc.) and seminar tutor's name. (Spare cover sheets are available near the essay box.) Use a word processor please, and leave a margin for comments. Please don't use plastic folders.
It's not easy to know what a philosophical piece of writing (such as we are asking for) is meant to be if you are new to the business. The best advice is often to have a go without worrying too much and see what your tutor says. Please don't hesitate to ask one of us if you are stuck.
Short extensions to the deadline may be given in exceptional circumstances (e.g. ill health etc.): requests should be made to the Director of Part I Studies, Sean Crawford, in person or in writing, prior to the deadline unless this is impossible.
VP/SC