What This Document Is
This is a first paper assignment for Philosophy 93, “The Rationalists,” offered at the University of California, Santa Cruz. It outlines the requirements for an analytical writing assignment focused on the foundational work of René Descartes. The assignment challenges students to engage deeply with specific arguments presented in Descartes’ *Meditations*. It’s designed to assess your understanding of philosophical reasoning, critical thinking, and your ability to construct and respond to objections.
Why This Document Matters
This assignment is crucial for students enrolled in PHIL 93, providing clear expectations for a significant portion of their grade. It’s particularly helpful to review *before* beginning your reading of Descartes, as it will focus your attention on key passages and prepare you to analyze them critically. Students who are new to philosophical writing or grappling with Descartes’ complex ideas will find this document especially valuable for understanding the scope and objectives of the assignment.
Topics Covered
* Descartes’ *Meditations* (First and Second)
* Philosophical Argumentation
* Critical Analysis & Objection Formation
* Philosophical Response & Defense
* Epistemology (the study of knowledge)
* Metaphysics (the study of reality)
* The nature of doubt and certainty
What This Document Provides
* Detailed instructions for the first paper assignment, including length requirements.
* A selection of key passages from Descartes’ *Meditations* to choose from for analysis.
* Guidance on the expected structure of the paper (argument explanation, objection, and response).
* Emphasis on the importance of original thought and a robust engagement with the material.
* Clarification on the scope of the assignment – focusing on specific arguments within the broader context of Descartes’ work.
