Intro to Ethics (PHIL 2306)

Instructor: Steven Shoemaker

 

Instructional Services · Liberal Arts, Humanities and Education · Philosophy

Intro to Ethics-13480PHIL-2306

  • SS 2022

 

  • Section 0021

 

  • 3 Credits

 

  • 09/20/2021 to 12/12/2021

 

  • Modified 08/12/2021

 Course Meetings

Meeting Days

Monday through Friday

Meeting Times

Business hours

Meeting Location

Online -- Canvas and [email protected]

Online

  •  

 Welcome and Instructor Information

What's Exciting About This Course

Primary Premise: Most ideas are wrong

     ________________________

Conclusion:  We must start by doubting any new idea, seeking to disprove it

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Non-critical thinking occurs when an idea comes into your mind and you uncritically accept it

 

CRITICAL THINKING is when you are expose to an idea, you doubt and seek confirmation

 

In this class, we develop our ability to think critically and to think better in situations in our life. 

                  Welcome to philosophy!!

Preferred Method of Contact

     [email protected]

Office Hours

  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM
  • Business hours
  •  

E-mail me at [email protected] in business hours, and I will contact you soon -- within twenty-four hours in the majority of cases. 

Professor: Steven Shoemaker

There are three parts of the class:

1st - Writing and Arguments;

2nd - Issues;

3rd - Final.

Most of the class is research and essay. I teach through the INDUCTIVE LOGIC METHOD: I have you research about, think about, and write about a topic/problem, have you tell me your ideas and solutions, and then I give you feedback and help you. (It is called "Socratic Method" -- I know you have heard of it). My method is to have you consider complex problems, research them, and write arguments about resolutions. SO: your job is to process information and develop your thinking. Welcome to philosophy. In most classes we just memorize stuff and regurgitate; you are not so fortunate

When evaluating your arguments, the first thing I always look at is your works cited, as this orients me and tells me your approach, so research is important. The second thing I study of yours is your abstract. I have forums and handouts on MLA, abstracts, works cited, etc., and some sample papers. In this class, fact-based reasoning is the only way -- Mere opinions matter not. I give feedback on how to get better in thinking, how to use facts, and figure life out. This class is not just in moral behavior, but also research to find facts and truth, rhetoric and arguments, reality. You have signed up for the meaning of life class – now let’s make a difference.

Your most important resources are:

  • The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (http://plato.stanford.edu/);
  • The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (http://www.iep.utm.edu/);
  • Squashed Philosophers (squato.com)

HCCS Open Lab locations may be used to access the Internet and Canvas. 

USE FIREFOX OR CHROME AS THE INTERNET BROWSER.

 Course Overview

Course Description

A philosophical reflection of the basic principles of the moral life, including traditional and contemporary views concerning the nature of goodness, happiness, duty, and freedom as they apply to individual right, business, medicine, and community well-being. This course satisfies the Language, Philosophy and Culture or Component Area Option of the HCC core.

Requisites

English 1302 or Department Approval 

Department Website

https://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/liberal-arts-humanities--education/philosophy/

 Core Curriculum Objectives (CCOs)

This course satisfies the Philosophy, Language, and Culture component area or the Component Area Option in the HCC Core Curriculum. 

  • Critical Thinking: Students will demonstrate the ability to engage in inquiry and analysis, evaluation and synthesis of information, and creative thinking by completing a written assignment such as a book report, research paper, or essay.
  • Communication Skills: Students will demonstrate effective development, interpretation and expression of ideas through written, oral, and visual communication by completing a written assignment such as a book report, research paper, or essay.
  • Personal Responsibility: Students will demonstrate the ability to connect choices, actions, and consequences to ethical decision-making.
  • Social Responsibility: Students will demonstrate cultural self-awareness, intercultural competency, civil knowledge, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities by completing textbook reading assignments, completing assignments, and answering questions on quizzes and exams that pertain to Course Student Learning Outcome #4 below.

 Student Learning Outcomes and Objectives

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

  1. Demonstrate knowledge and an understanding of arguments, problems, and terminology in philosophy.
  2. Analyze and critique philosophical texts in ways that demonstrate an awareness of argument structure and the evaluation of philosophical claims.
  3. Present logically persuasive arguments orally and in writing that are relevant to philosophical issues covered in course material.
  4. Evaluate personal and social responsibilities of living in a diverse world in terms of the philosophical issues raised in course material.
  5. Apply relevant ethical theories to daily activities, and to issues in contemporary debates.

Course Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs)

  1. Read, analyze, and critique philosophical texts.
  2. Define and appropriately use important terms such as relativism, virtue, duty, rights, utilitarianism, natural law, egoism, altruism, autonomy, and care ethics.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of major arguments and problems in ethics.
  4. Present and discuss well-reasoned ethical positions in writing.
  5. Apply ethical concepts and principles to address moral concerns.
  6. Apply course material to various aspects of life.
  7. Discuss ways of living responsibly in a world where people have diverse ethical beliefs.

Learning Objectives

1.1 Read canonical texts and contemporary articles in the philosophical tradition of ethics.

 

1.2 Analyze, discuss, and critique philosophical texts and ethical questions through open annotation exercises, papers, and discussion forums.

 

1.3 Analyze and critique philosophical texts and practical ethical questions in papers and tests.

 

2.1 Learn basic philosophical vocabulary, major arguments, and positions in philosophical ethics.

 

2.2 Recognize key concepts in regular quizzes.

 

2.3 Demonstrate understanding of key arguments and claims made by philosophers studied in the course through papers and assignments.

 

3 Present logically persuasive arguments in papers and tests.

 

4.1 Engage in critical thinking through discussion forums, papers, and tests.

 

4.2 Demonstrate critical thinking skills in all written work.

 

5.1 Consider the impacts of philosophical ideas on personal and social responsibility in papers and discussion forums.

 

5.2 Apply philosophical concepts discussed in the course to personal and contemporary issues, demonstrating a concern for social and personal responsibility in written work.

 Departmental Practices and Procedures

Department Specific Instructor and Student Responsibilities

As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to:

  • Provide the grading scale and detailed grading formula explaining how student grades are to be derived
  • Facilitate an effective learning environment through learner-centered instructional techniques
  • Provide a description of any special projects or assignments
  • Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness, and making up assignments
  • Provide the course outline and class calendar that will include a description of any special projects or assignments
  • Arrange to meet with individual students before and/or after class as required

As a student, it is your responsibility to:

  • Attend class in person and/or online
  • Participate actively by reviewing course material, interacting with classmates, and responding promptly in your communication with me
  • Read and comprehend the course material
  • Complete the required assignments and exams
  • Ask for help when there is a question or problem
  • Keep copies of all assignments, this syllabus, handouts
  • Be aware of and comply with academic honesty policies in the HCCS Student Handbook

Program-Specific Student Success Information

Attendance, preparedness, participation, and communication are essential for your success in this course. Preparedness and participation include carefully engaging with course material and assignments during course hours and on your own time. Attendance and communication with your instructor and your peers are vital. All of the above will ensure your growth in our community of learners where knowledge and skills are achieved through a process of mutual responsibility and involvement. 

Academic Integrity

A student who is academically dishonest is, by definition, not showing that the coursework has been learned, and that student is claiming an advantage not available to other students.  The instructor is responsible for measuring each student’s individual achievements and also for ensuring that all students participate on a level playing field. Thus, in our system, the instructor has teaching, grading, and enforcing roles. You are expected to be familiar with HCC’s policy on Academic Honesty. What that means is that if you are charged with an offense, pleading ignorance of the rules will not help you. To be clear, plagiarism (using another's ideas or words without giving credit), collusion (unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work offered for credit), and other forms of cheating will not be tolerated.

Students guilty of academic dishonesty may be given a grade of “F” or “0” for the particular assignment involved, assigned a failing grade in the course for repeated offenses, and/or referred to the Dean of Student Services for further disciplinary action. In extreme cases or for repeated violations, guilty students are recommended for probation or dismissal from the College.

Attendance Policy

HCC Policy is that you can miss up to but not exceed 12.5% of class hours, which is equivalent to 6 hours in this course. If you have not attended class before the official date of record, you will be automatically withdrawn from the course by the registrar. Students who are withdrawn for nonattendance will not be reinstated. Although it is your responsibility to withdraw from a course, the instructor has the authority to withdraw you for excessive absences. You may be withdrawn from a course after accumulating absences in excess of 12.5 percent of the total hours of instruction (6 hours for this course).

You are absent when you:

Online Anytime Courses (WW) - Fail to actively participate (including failure to submit assignments).

Online on a Schedule Courses (WS) – Fail to log in during your scheduled class time and/or fail to actively participate (including failure to submit assignments). Excessive tardies and leaving class early may count towards your allotted absences.

In Person Courses (P) – Fail to attend class. Excessive tardies and leaving class early may count towards your allotted absences.

Hybrid Courses (HY) – Fail to log in and actively participate during your scheduled class time and/or fail to attend your in-person class session. Excessive tardies and leaving class early may count towards your allotted absences.

Incomplete Policy

In order to be considered for a grade of Incomplete (“I”), a student must have completed at least 75% of the coursework with a passing grade. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the instructor and to submit requisite work to complete the course and be assigned a grade. Student and instructor should execute a statement of work to be completed. A grade of Incomplete which has not been made up after six months from the end of the term in which the “I” was assigned will be converted to an “F.” In all cases, the instructor reserves the right to decline a student’s request to receive a grade of Incomplete.

 Instructional Materials and Resources

Instructional Materials

Your most important resources are:

  • The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (http://plato.stanford.edu/);
  • The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (http://www.iep.utm.edu/);
  • Squashed Philosophers (squato.com)

Evidence is the ultimate arbiter of truth;

        If observations prove your theories incorrect

           you must disregard your theories and go with the evidence .

Thus, avoid quotation and study website -- no context; and avoid .coms. 

  Use .gov, .edu, and .org sites

 Course Requirements

Assignments, Exams, and Activities

Reading, 'riting, and reasoning -- the 3R's.

    These are the foundation of our civilization,

         And that on which we work. 

Types of evaluations and related weights

Type

Weight

Topic

Notes

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

MLA Formatted Writing and Arguments

Due 26 September 2021@23:55

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

Philosophy Basics and Informal Logical Fallacies

Due 3 October 2021@23:55

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

Reading and Understanding Arguments

Due 10 October 2021@23:55

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

Writing and Understanding Arguments

Due 17 October 2021@23:55

Written Assignment

100 points

Stealing

Due 24 October 2021@23:55

Written Assignment

100 points

Lying

Due 7 November@23:55

Written Assignment

100 points

Shame

Due 21 November 2021@23:55

Written Assignment

100 points

Real Human

Due 28 November 2021@23:55

Final

100 points

Application of Philosophy to Life

Due 7 December 2021@23:55

Grading Formula

Essay Assignments, Exercises, Quizzes, and Examinations - 100 %  

Topical reading and writing assignments involve comprehension of essays and narrations and delving into specifics on the issues. The class is essay based, and proper formatting is essential for legal reasons. Essays will done using MLA style. Essays containing obvious spelling errors will have 30 points deducted from the total earned.   Poor diction and grammar will result in an additional 30 point deduction. 

 

General Grading Rubric Elements (Rubric values will be alter to fit the particular assignments emphasis):

  • MLA Heading
  • Abstract
  • Citations
  • Works Cited
  • Assignment Requirements
  • Persuasion

 

To avoid confusion, all work for this class must be submitted within Eagle Online in the Assignment Submission area in the assignments. 

Do not send any completed assignments to any non- Eagle Online email address.  Do not print work out to mail or drop off at a campus.  All written communication must be conducted within Eagle Online email.

Please note that for deadline purposes, the Eagle Online clock is the "official" clock, even if you are certain that your watch keeps perfect time.

HCC Grading Scale can be found on this site under Academic Information:

http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/student-handbook/

Resulting grade and related performance levels

Grade

Range

Notes

A

100-90

B

89-80

C

79-70

D

69-60

F

59-0

 Instructor's Practices and Procedures

Incomplete Policy

In order to receive a grade of Incomplete (“I”), a student must have completed at least 85% of the work in the course. In all cases, the instructor reserves the right to decline a student’s request to receive a grade of Incomplete. Given proper documentation and communication, an incomplete may be considered for medical reasons.

 

Missed Assignments/Make-Up Policy

Late Work

Assignments may be accepted after the due date, but only with valid reason, only for one week after due date, and only for 50% credit.

Academic Integrity

Cheating is not that hard to define and as college students, you should have a firm idea about what cheating is. Just to be clear, here are a few simple definitions: 

 

-

Cheating is: Copying from another student's exam.

-

Cheating is: During a exam, using materials not authorized by the person giving the exam.

-

Cheating is: Collaborating with another student during a exam without proper authority.

-

Cheating is: Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, or soliciting in whole or part the contents of an exam or paper.

-

Cheating is: Bribing another person to obtain a copy of an exam.

-

Cheating is: Plagiarism which means using someone's work or someone's ideas and representing them to be your own. That "someone" may be another student, a friend, a relative, a book author, an author of material on a web site, etc. Do not take material from anywhere without giving proper credit or reference.  In other words, do not copy from an Internet source and paste it into your essay answer space. ADDITIONALLY: proper MLA-format must be used for a paper to be legal, so incorrect formatting can result in up to 50% grade reduction.

-

Cheating is: Collusion, which means the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work offered for credit when you represent that work to be your own. 

Here’s the link to the HCC information about academic integrity (Scholastic Dishonesty and Violation of Academic Scholastic Dishonesty and Grievance):

https://www.hccs.edu/about-hcc/procedures/student-rights-policies--procedures/student-procedures/

Attendance Procedures

You are expected to log in on all online at least once a week . You are expected to read the Announcements. You are also responsible for materials covered during your absences. Instructors may be willing to consult with you for make-up assignments, but it is your responsibility to contact the instructor. Class attendance is checked daily. Although it is your responsibility to drop a course for nonattendance, the instructor has the authority to drop you for excessive absences.  You may be dropped from a course after accumulating absences in excess of 12.5 percent of the total hours of instruction (lecture and lab). For example:  For a three credit-hour lecture class meeting three hours per week (48 hours of instruction), you can be dropped after six hours of absence.

Student Conduct

Students are expected to conduct themselves in this philosophy class in a civilized, ethical manner, in accord with the HCCS Student Code of Conduct:

https://www.hccs.edu/media/houston-community-college/district/pdf/2018-2019-Student-Code-of-Conduct.pdf

The instructor will notify the student if the student violates this manner to discuss the evidence; the instructor will notify the student of findings in writing (HCC student email sufficient). Possible consequences for a violations may include a grade of “0” or “F” on the particular assignment/exam or failure in the course. Some HCC programs may view a first violation to be egregious and may result in removal from the program.

Instructor’s Course-Specific Information

Students can expect grades and feedback after they submit coursework within two days, in most cases. Feedback and commentary is found to the right of the student’s submissions in returned assignment.

Devices

Please use Chrome or Firefox browsers. If you are in a classroom, you my use a laptop, tablet, or any other device for taking notes or otherwise participating in class. However, please do not use a personal device for any purpose unrelated to class. All devices should be silenced. Cell phones should be put away, except in the rare instance that you to use them for an activity. I recommend that you power them down. If there is a serious need to leave your cell phone on, such as a family emergency, please put it on vibrate and let your instructor know.

 

Faculty Statement about Student Success

Expect to spend at least twice as many hours per week outside of class as you do in class studying the course content.  Additional time will be required for written assignments.  The assignments provided will help you use your study hours wisely.  Successful completion of this course requires a combination of the following:

  • Attending to sometimes-daily Announcements
  • Research and MLA-Format essay writing
  • Attending to class online
  • Completing assignments and essays

There is no short cut for success in this course; it requires reading (and probably re-reading) and studying the material using the course objectives as a guide.

Late Work:

Assignments may be accepted after the due date for five days only (Friday), but only with valid reason and only for no more than 50% credit.  There is no extra credit.

Faculty-Specific Information Regarding Canvas

This course section will use Canvas (https://eagleonline.hccs.edu) to supplement in-class assignments, exams, and activities.  

Please read Announcements for details and aids in assignments, and for enrichment information.

HCCS Open Lab locations may be used to access the Internet and Canvas.  For best performance, Canvas should be used on the current or first previous major release of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Because it's built using web standards, Canvas runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or any other device with a modern web browser. 

Canvas only requires an operating system that can run the latest compatible web browsers. Your computer operating system should be kept up to date with the latest recommended security updates and upgrades.  

Instructional Modalities

Online Anytime (WW)

Traditional online course without scheduled meetings

 

Social Justice Statement

Houston Community College is committed to furthering the cause of social justice in our community and beyond. HCC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status. I fully support that commitment and, as such, will work to maintain a positive learning environment based upon open communication, mutual respect, and non-discrimination. In this course, we share in the creation and maintenance of a positive and safe learning environment. Part of this process includes acknowledging and embracing the differences among us in order to establish and reinforce that each one of us matters.  I appreciate your suggestions about how to best maintain this environment of respect. If you experience any type of discrimination, please contact me and/or the Office of Institutional Equity at 713-718-8271.

 HCC Policies and Information

HCC Grading System

HCC uses the following standard grading system:

Grade

Grade Interpretation

Grade Points

A

Excellent (90-100)

4

B

Good (80-89)

3

C

Fair (70-79)

2

D

Passing (60-69), except in developmental courses.

1

F

Failing (59 and below)

0

FX

Failing due to non-attendance

0

W

Withdrawn

0

I

Incomplete

0

AUD

Audit

0

IP

In Progress. Given only in certain developmental courses. A student must re-enroll to receive credit.

0

COM

Completed. Given in non-credit and continuing education courses.

0

Link to Policies in Student Handbook

Here’s the link to the HCC Student Handbook https://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/student-handbook/   In it you will find information about the following:

  • Academic Information
  • Academic Support
  • Attendance, Repeating Courses, and Withdrawal
  • Career Planning and Job Search
  • Childcare
  • disAbility Support Services
  • Electronic Devices
  • Equal Educational Opportunity
  • Financial Aid TV (FATV)
  • General Student Complaints
  • Grade of FX
  • Incomplete Grades
  • International Student Services
  • Health Awareness
  • Libraries/Bookstore
  • Police Services & Campus Safety
  • Student Life at HCC
  • Student Rights and Responsibilities
  • Student Services
  • Testing
  • Transfer Planning
  • Veteran Services

Link to HCC Academic Integrity Statement

https://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/faculty/student-conduct-resources-for-faculty/

Campus Carry Link

Here’s the link to the HCC information about Campus Carry:

https://www.hccs.edu/departments/police/campus-carry/

HCC Email Policy

When communicating via email, HCC requires students to communicate only through the HCC email system to protect your privacy.  If you have not activated your HCC student email account, you can go to HCC Eagle ID and activate it now.  You may also use Canvas Inbox to communicate.

Office of Institutional Equity

Use the link below to access the HCC Office of Institutional Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement (https://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/)

Ability Services

HCC strives to make all learning experiences as accessible as possible.  If you anticipate or experience academic barriers based on your disability (including long and short term conditions, mental health, chronic or temporary medical conditions), please meet with a campus Abilities Counselor as soon as possible in order to establish reasonable accommodations.  Reasonable accommodations are established through an interactive process between you, your instructor(s) and Ability Services.  It is the policy and practice of HCC to create inclusive and accessible learning environments consistent with federal and state law.  For more information, please go to https://www.hccs.edu/support-services/ability-services/

Title IX

Houston Community College is committed to cultivating an environment free from inappropriate conduct of a sexual or gender-based nature including sex discrimination, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual violence.  Sex discrimination includes all forms of sexual and gender-based misconduct and violates an individual’s fundamental rights and personal dignity.  Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex-including pregnancy and parental status in educational programs and activities.  If you require an accommodation due to pregnancy please contact an Abilities Services Counselor.  The Director of EEO/Compliance is designated as the Title IX Coordinator and Section 504 Coordinator.  All inquiries concerning HCC policies, compliance with applicable laws, statutes, and regulations (such as Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504), and complaints may be directed to:

David Cross
Director EEO/Compliance
Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity
3100 Main
(713) 718-8271
Houston, TX 77266-7517 or [email protected]

http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/title-ix-know-your-rights/

Office of the Dean of Students

Contact the office of the Dean of Students to seek assistance in determining the correct complaint procedure to follow or to identify the appropriate academic dean or supervisor for informal resolution of complaints.

https://www.hccs.edu/about-hcc/procedures/student-rights-policies--procedures/student-complaints/speak-with-the-dean-of-students/

Student Success

Expect to spend at least twice as many hours per week outside of class as you do in class studying the course content.  Additional time will be required for written assignments.  The assignments provided will help you use your study hours wisely.  Successful completion of this course requires a combination of the following:

  • Reading the textbook
  • Attending class in person and/or online
  • Completing assignments
  • Participating in class activities

There is no short cut for success in this course; it requires reading (and probably re-reading) and studying the material using the course objectives as a guide.

Canvas Learning Management System

Canvas is HCC’s Learning Management System (LMS), and can be accessed at the following URL:

https://eagleonline.hccs.edu

HCCS Open Lab locations may be used to access the Internet and Canvas.  For best performance, Canvas should be used on the current or first previous major release of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Because it's built using web standards, Canvas runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or any other device with a modern web browser. 

Canvas only requires an operating system that can run the latest compatible web browsers. Your computer operating system should be kept up to date with the latest recommended security updates and upgrades.  

 

HCC Online Information and Policies

Here is the link to information about HCC Online classes, which includes access to the required Online Information Class Preview for all fully online classes: https://www.hccs.edu/online/

Scoring Rubrics, Sample Assignments, etc.

Look in Canvas for the scoring rubrics for assignments, samples of class assignments, and other information to assist you in the course.  https://eagleonline.hccs.edu/login/ldap

Instructor and Student Responsibilities

As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to:

  • Provide the grading scale and detailed grading formula explaining how student grades are to be derived
  • Facilitate an effective learning environment through learner-centered instructional techniques
  • Provide a description of any special projects or assignments
  • Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness, and making up assignments
  • Provide the course outline and class calendar that will include a description of any special projects or assignments
  • Arrange to meet with individual students during office hours, and before and after class as required

As a student, it is your responsibility to:

  • Attend class in person and/or online
  • Participate actively by reviewing course material, interacting with classmates, and responding promptly in your communication with me
  • Read and comprehend the textbook
  • Complete the required assignments and exams
  • Ask for help when there is a question or problem
  • Keep copies of all paperwork, including this syllabus, handouts, and all assignments
  • Be aware of and comply with academic honesty policies in the HCCS Student Handbook

Sensitive or Mature Course Content

In this college-level course, we may occasionally discuss sensitive or mature content. All members of the classroom environment, from your instructor to your fellow students, are expected to handle potentially controversial subjects with respect and consideration for one another’s varied experiences and values.  

EGLS3

The EGLS3 (Evaluation for Greater Learning Student Survey System) will be available for most courses near the end of the term until finals start.  This brief survey will give invaluable information to your faculty about their teaching.  Results are anonymous and will be available to faculty and division chairs after the end of the term.  EGLS3 surveys are only available for the Fall and Spring semesters.  EGLS3 surveys are not offered during the Summer semester due to logistical constraints.

https://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/egls3-evaluate-your-professors/

Housing and Food Assistance for Students

Any student who faces challenges securing their foods or housing and believes this may affect their performance in the course is urged to contact the Dean of Students at their college for support. Furthermore, please notify the professor if you are comfortable in doing so.  

This will enable HCC to provide any resources that HCC may possess.

Student Resources

Tutoring

HCC provides free, confidential, and convenient academic support, including writing critiques,  to HCC students in an online environment and on campus.  Tutoring is provided by HCC personnel in order to ensure that it is contextual and appropriate.  Visit the HCC Tutoring Services website for services provided.

Libraries

The HCC Library System consists of 9 libraries and 6 Electronic Resource Centers (ERCs) that are inviting places to study and collaborate on projects.  Librarians are available both at the libraries and online to show you how to locate and use the resources you need.  The libraries maintain a large selection of electronic resources as well as collections of books, magazines, newspapers, and audiovisual materials.  The portal to all libraries’ resources and services is the HCCS library web page at https://library.hccs.edu.

Supplementary Instruction

Supplemental Instruction is an academic enrichment and support program that uses peer-assisted study sessions to improve student retention and success in historically difficult courses.  Peer Support is provided by students who have already succeeded in completion of the specified course, and who earned a grade of A or B.  Find details at https://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/supplemental-instruction/.

Resources for Students:

https://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/communicable-diseases/resources-for-students/

Basic Needs Resources:

https://www.hccs.edu/support-services/counseling/hcc-cares/basic-needs-resources/

Student Basic Needs Application:

https://hccs.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_25WyNx7NwMRz1FH

COVID-19

Here’s the link to the HCC information about COVID-19:

https://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/communicable-diseases/  

Instructional Modalities

In-Person (P)

Safe, face-to-face course with scheduled dates and times

Online on a Schedule (WS)

Fully online course with virtual meetings at scheduled dates and times

Online Anytime (WW)

Traditional online course without scheduled meetings

Hybrid (H)

Course that meets safely 50% face-to-face and 50% virtually

Hybrid Lab (HL)

Lab class that meets safely 50% face-to-face and 50% virtually

 Course Calendar

Syllabus Modifications

The instructor reserves the right to modify the syllabus at any time during the semester and will promptly notify students in writing, typically by e-mail, of any such changes.

 

Assignments, Exams, and Activities

Reading, 'riting, and reasoning -- the 3R's.

    These are the foundation of our civilization,

         And that on which we work. 

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

MLA Formatted Writing and Arguments

Due 26 September 2021@23:55

 

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

Philosophy Basics and Informal Logical Fallacies

Due 3 October 2021@23:55

 

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

Reading and Understanding Arguments

Due 10 October 2021@23:55

 

Lessons and Quiz

100 points

Writing and Understanding Arguments

Due 17 October 2021@23:55

 

Written Assignment

100 points

Stealing

Due 24 October 2021@23:55

 

Written Assignment

100 points

Lying

Due 7 November@23:55

 

Written Assignment

100 points

Shame

Due 21 November 2021@23:55

 

Written Assignment

100 points

Real Human

Due 28 November 2021@23:55

 

Final

100 points

Application of Philosophy to Life

Due 7 December 2021@23:55

 Additional Information

Departmental/Program Information

The HCC philosophy program provides students opportunities to explore and cultivate open, critical ways to understand the search for truth and to examine the moral implications of thinking and action in an increasingly technologically driven multicultural world.

AWARD TYPES: Associate in Arts

AREA OF STUDY: Liberal Arts, Humanities & Education

Careers in Field

An undergraduate degree in Philosophy prepares graduates for careers which include writing, journalism, policy-making, teaching, law and business. Additional studies may be needed.

Transfer/Advising Plan

https://www.hccs.edu/finder/programs/transfer-advising-plan-for-philosophy-specialty-area---aa/

Student Organizations

Ethics Bowl
Philosophy Club

Scholarships

HCC

Monthly Scholarship Opportunities

HCC Foundation Scholarships

HCC Foundation Scholarships for F-1 Students

Eagle Promise – Free Degree Program

HCC Honors College Scholarship

Impact Scholarship

Chancellor Scholarship

 

Process for Expressing Concerns about the Course

If you have concerns about any aspect of this course, please reach out to your instructor for assistance first. If your instructor is not able to assist you, then you may wish to contact the Department Chair. 

Dr. Helen Graham, [email protected], 713-718-7258