What This Document Is
This is a comprehensive review resource designed to prepare students for the midterm examination in PHIL 1100, Introduction to Philosophy, at William Paterson University. It focuses on core concepts and arguments covered in the first half of the course, spanning classical thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and extending into discussions of metaphysics and ethics. The review is structured around key themes and questions likely to appear on the assessment, offering a focused approach to studying.
Why This Document Matters
This review is invaluable for students seeking to consolidate their understanding of foundational philosophical ideas. It’s particularly helpful for those who benefit from a structured overview of course material before a high-stakes exam. Utilizing this resource will help you identify areas where your comprehension is strong and pinpoint topics requiring further attention. It’s best used in the week leading up to the midterm, after completing assigned readings and attending lectures, as a tool for self-assessment and targeted revision.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This review is *not* a substitute for attending lectures, completing assigned readings, or engaging in class discussions. It does not provide new philosophical arguments or interpretations beyond those already presented in the course. Furthermore, it doesn’t offer detailed step-by-step solutions or answers to potential exam questions; rather, it serves as a framework for understanding the *types* of questions you might encounter and the core concepts they address. It assumes a baseline familiarity with the philosophers and ideas discussed in the course.
What This Document Provides
* A focused overview of the Socratic Method and its application in early dialogues.
* An exploration of fundamental problems in ethics, including the relationship between divine authority and morality.
* Key arguments related to relativism and the nature of truth.
* A breakdown of Aristotelian metaphysics, including the theory of the four causes.
* An examination of Aristotle’s conception of the divine and its role in the universe.
* Discussion of the different types of soul as understood by Aristotle.
* Analysis of the connection between happiness, virtue, and the pursuit of *telos*.
* Comparative insights into the ethical frameworks of Epictetus, Epicurus, and Aristotle.
* An introduction to the concepts of essence, existence, and natural law.
