PHIL1002 The Human Mind
What is the relation between mind and body?
What is consciousness? What is a person? Do we have free will?
In this philosophy course we examine these questions and more.
Along the way, students will be introduced to contemporary philosophy, and
will develop and improve skills in critical reading, analytical writing, and oral discussion.
Clear and careful writing will be emphasized; lively discussion and independent
thinking will be encouraged. No previous background in philosophy is assumed.
The only prerequisite is a thoughtful and curious mind.
Announcements
10 May: You can pick up your marked paper from your tutor, Mr Kaho Lam, on Friday 12 May, in room MB305, between 2 and 5 in the afternoon.
If you cannot come during that time, you may send him an email.
28 April: Reminder: The final test will be held in class on Wednesday 3 May.
28 April: The list of topics for the final test is now available.
To find the list of topics, click the Lecture Notes link.
14 April: I have now posted a link to next week's reading about free will on the schedule.
4 April: The paper topics are now available.
To find the paper assignment, click the Lecture Notes link.
9 March: The list of topics for the midterm test on 22 March is now available.
To find the list of topics, click the Lecture Notes link.
1 March: The reading for next week is Searle's "Minds, Brains and Programs".
To find it, click on the link on the Schedule page.
1 March: Frank Jackson is visiting the Chinese University of Hong Kong this month.
Among other things, he is giving a Public Lecture on 13 March.
23 February: The reading for next week (by Smart) is available in the Philosophy department Main Office.
You may borrow the reading to make a copy for yourself.
9 February: Sign up for your tutorial on the list outside room 302 in the Main Building.
17 February: The reading for next week is by Jackson.
To find it, click on the link on the Schedule page.
9 February: The Campbell reading for next week is now available in the Philosophy department Main Office.
You may borrow the reading to make a copy for yourself.
9 February: Sign up for your tutorial on the list outside room 302 in the Main Building.
No more than 8 students per tutorial, please.
25 January: I have put notes from the lectures online.
Click Lecture Notes below.
21 January: Welcome to the course! Here is the plan for the semester.
Be advised that the plan may need slight revisions as the semester progresses.
Meetings
Monday and Wednesday, 10:40AM-11:30AM.
Assessment
25% Midterm test
One hour long, to be given in lecture (22 March).
25% Final test
One hour long, during the last lecture (3 May).
30% Paper (1000-1250 words, 4-5 pages)
Due 21 April by 4:30PM. Paper topics will be suggested. You are highly encouraged and very welcome
to discuss your writing with me or your tutor. I am happy to read outlines or drafts of papers up to one week before the paper is due.
Late papers will be penalized by a 10% reduction in grade for each day late.
20% Tutorial and Lecture
You are expected to do the reading and attend lectures and tutorials.
You are encouraged to raise questions and offer comments during lecture.
You are required to participate in tutorial.
Some very brief writing assignments will be assigned for tutorial.
Office Hour
I am almost always free to talk after class. I can also meet to talk at other times. Send me email to make arrangements.
Academic Honesty
Plagiarism or other violations of academic honesty will be severely punished.
Please see this website to be sure you understand what plagiarism is.