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SAN DIEGO MESA COLLEGE
PHIL 111
CRN: 08659
SPRING 2011
INSTRUCTOR: PROF. NINA ROSENSTAND
PHILOSOPHY IN LITERATURE
SYLLABUS
CLASSES MEET:
MW 11:10 AM-12:35 PM, H-307
Instructor’s office: H301-G. Mailbox: H302.
Office hours: MTWR 10:00-11:05, MT 2:10-2:30, and by appointment
Messages to Instructor: (619) 388-2407
E-mail: nrosenst@sdccd.edu
COURSE WEBSITE
http://classroom.sdmesa.edu/nrosenst
The course website contains information about the syllabus, assignments, announcements, study guides, extra credit, and
links to other websites. The course website will be updated regularly. In the eventuality of cancelled meetings or other
emergencies, consult the website. You must have computer access in order to take advantage of the information on the
website. Computer access is available at the LRC.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course provides an introduction to the aims, methods, issues and problems associated with philosophy and philosophical
activity. In this course students read and analyze selected classical and/or contemporary literature which portrays or
dramatizes perennial philosophical questions, issues and themes relating to such topics as: the nature of reality, the notion of
the self, the issue of choice and determinism, the problem of good and evil, the characteristics of the good life. This offering
may be of interest to students pursuing studies in literature or in the Behavioral and/or Social Sciences. (FT). Associate
Degree Credit & transfer to CSU and/or private colleges and universities. UC Transfer Course List.
Advisory:
ENGL 101 or ENGL 105 with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent, or assessment Skill Level W6/R6.
STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of the course the student will be able to:
1. Identify and/or describe the aims, methods, issues and problems associated with philosophy and philosophical activity
relating to selected issues and themes as treated in significant works of literature.
2. Identify, define and/or describe the philosophical terminology or nomenclature commonly used to classify positions,
methods/approaches associated with the philosophical issues and themes selected for
illustration, exploration, and discussion.
3. Compare and/or explain/contrast basic concepts, principles and theories commonly meaningful to philosophical inquiry
associated with the philosophical issues and themes selected for exploration and discussion as treated in the assigned works
of literature.
4. Identify and/or describe various facets and basic beliefs in relation to philosophical activity associated with the
philosophical issues and themes selected for exploration and discussion as treated in the assigned works of literature.
5. Identify and/or describe the assumptions on which such basic beliefs rest.
6. Analyze and/or critically evaluate the evidence alleged in behalf of those basic beliefs.
7. Trace the theoretical and/or practical consequences to which those basic beliefs lead.
8. Articulate, analyze and evaluate their own beliefs/positions in the process of meaningful philosophical inquiry relating to
the issues and themes selected for exploration and discussion.
COURSE CONTENT
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In this course we explore the relationship between philosophy and works of fiction, including novels, short-stories, folktales,
and films. Classical philosophical themes within ethics, epistemology and metaphysics will be illustrated through a selection
of stories ranging from folktales from non-Western traditions, to classic stories from the Western tradition, to science fiction
and fantasy. In addition, we will discuss the philosophical theory of narratology—the theory that stories are a form of
communication providing a special kind of philosophical insight into life in general, and one’s own life in particular.
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS:
RESPONSIBILITY TO ADD, DROP, OR WITHDRAW
It is the student’s responsibility to add, drop, or withdraw from classes before the deadlines stated in the class
schedule. Petitions to add, drop or withdraw after the deadline will not be approved without proof of circumstances
beyond the student’s control which made him/her unable to meet the deadline. Lack of money to pay fees is not
considered an extenuating circumstance. Students anticipating difficulty in paying fees before the add deadline
should check with the Financial Aid Office about sources of funds or other alternatives for which they may be
eligible.
If you decide to withdraw from this course, you are reminded to do so before April 1. If you fail to withdraw by
that date and you stop coming to class, a final grade must be assigned to you.
SDCCD Policy:
It is the student’s responsibility to drop all classes which he/she is no longer attending.
It is the instructor’s discretion to withdraw a student after the add/drop deadline (Feb.4) due to excessive
absences.
Students who remain enrolled in a class beyond the published withdrawal deadline (Apr.1), as stated in the class
schedule, will receive an evaluative letter grade in the class.
INSTRUCTOR’S ATTENDANCE POLICY
For your own sake, please note that attendance is critical to teaching and learning. You may fall behind in acquiring
course content and skills if you do not attend class regularly. I realize that situations may develop which are beyond
your control and which may affect your attendance. Therefore, a maximum of 3 absences has been established. This
is in compliance with Mesa College policy on attendance. Please refer to college catalog. Additional absences may
influence your final grade. Details will be explained in class, and on the website.
TARDINESS AND EARLY DEPARTURES
Classes begin at the set hour. In a professional setting, tardiness and early departures are not acceptable. Tardiness
and early departures are also disruptive to the learning environment. Promptness reflects professional courtesy and
is expected. My policy on tardiness and early departures is that four unexcused late arrivals/early departures may be
treated as one absence.
IF YOUR INSTRUCTOR IS LATE:
Daytime classes: You must wait 15 minutes before leaving. Evening classes: You must wait 30 minutes!
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR AND STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Students are expected to respect and obey standards of student conduct while in classes and on the campus. The student code
of conduct disciplinary procedure, and student due process (Policy 3100 and Procedures 3100.1 and 3100.2) can be found in
the college catalog, student handbook, and at the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs (Room H-500). The Code of Conduct
as listed in College Policies is provided on the final page of the syllabus Part 1. Charges of misconduct and disciplinary
sanctions may be imposed upon students who violate these standards of conduct or provisions of college regulations.
In addition, as your instructor I have the following expectations of your behavior as a student in this class:
 I expect you to promote a courteous learning atmosphere by exhibiting mutual respect and consideration of the feelings,
ideas, and contributions of others.
 I expect you to demonstrate respect for tools, equipment and supplies in the classroom.
 I expect you to practice consideration for others by maintaining a clean and orderly learning environment.
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I expect you to recognize everyone’s opportunity to contribute information in a relevant and meaningful manner by not
monopolizing discussions, interrupting, interjecting irrelevant, illogical or inappropriate questions or comments.
Regarding food and beverages in the classroom: I do not allow any food or open beverage containers in the classroom.
Regarding personal electronic equipment in the classroom: As a rule, I do not allow any use of electronic devices while
class is in session. You need my permission to use an electronic device to complete class work. Also, you need my
permission to record class meetings.
I do not allow any reading of material unrelated to class, in hard copy or electronically, while class is in session.
I do not allow activated cell phones in class, unless special permission has been given by me (that means: SILENCE
YOUR PHONES WHILE CLASS IS IN SESSION!).
I do not allow any texting (SMS/text messaging)
Using e-mail to communicate with me about class topics is allowed, and encouraged. I will read and respond to e-mail in
my office hours. Details will be explained in class.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
This class will be conducted in accordance with the college student code of conduct and basic standards of academic honesty.
Cheating, plagiarism or other forms of academic dishonesty are not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Violations of
standards of academic honesty will be reported to the college disciplinary office for appropriate action.
ACADEMIC ACCOMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Students with disabilities who may need academic accommodations should notify me immediately.
METHODS OF EVALUATION
In class objective / essay examinations which test the student's ability to identify, define, and/or
describe the philosophical terminology or nomenclature commonly used to classify positions, methods
or approaches associated with the philosophical study of such issues/topics as: the nature of reality, the
notion of the self, the issue of choice and determinism, the problem of good and evil, the characteristics
of the good life. In class essay examinations, written and/or oral presentations, or appropriate group
activities. Submission of assignments in a timely manner. Fulfillment of out of class assignments which are
preparatory to the class sessions. Attentive engagement and/or active participation during class sessions and
activities.
Out of class activities such as:Take home examinations that measure the student's performance related to the course
objectives. Reading and writing assignments as specified in the course syllabus. Development of position
papers/presentations.
Exams: There will be an in class midterm, an in class final, two research papers, and two quizzes. Before each examination
there will be a review session. Each exam will consist of a set of objective questions and/or essay questions. Added
up, the first quiz, the midterm, the second quiz and the final will be worth two thirds of your final grade, and the two
papers will comprise the final third. The relationship between points and letter grades is traditional: A= 100-90,
B=89-80, C=79-70, D=69-60, F=59-0. :
Papers: The two research papers must be min. 3 pages, max.5 pages each, typed, and double-spaced, and will be worth max.
50 points each. Papers cannot be submitted by e-mail. The papers must be turned in to your instructor in person.
You must keep a copy of your papers for your files: a photocopy if typed, a hard copy plus a copy on your hard
drive if written on a computer. Late research papers will be accepted during the following class meeting with the
following penalty: 3 point will be docked from your grade. Word of advice: While you may use your own judgment
in terms of turning papers in late, beware of losing points! Maintain writer’s discipline!
The final grade in this class may be affected by active class participation and absences, as follows: excessive absences may
affect your grade negatively: you will lose ½ percentage point for each excessive absence without a written
explanation of extenuating circumstances approved by me. In determining the final grade for borderline cases (Bs at
89.0-89.4, Cs at 79.0-79.4, Ds at 69.0-69.4 and Fs at 59.0-59.4), excellent and consistent active class participation
will also be taken into consideration. Details will be explained in class, and on the website.
POLICY REGARDING LATE WORK: Late papers will be accepted one meeting after the due date with a penalty of
3 points.
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POLICY REGARDING MAKE-UP/EXTRA CREDIT WORK
If you are unable to make it to class for an exam, notify me before the exam, or as soon as possible. A make-up test can only
be scheduled in an emergency, and only if I have been notified before or on the day of the examination, and will normally
have to be completed before the graded exams are returned. Only one make-up test allowed per student per semester
without a doctor’s note or other documentation of an emergency. Under certain circumstances involving a personal
emergency a take-home paper may replace an in-class exam. Details will be explained in class.
Extra-credit work: Details will be explained in class, and on the course website. Extra credit can also be obtained by
attending events listed on the course website. 4 possible percentage points, added to your final grade.
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
The method of instruction will be part lecture, part class discussion, and video presentations if feasible.
Taking notes is important: You may be tested on information written on the board and/or emphasized in class (mentioned
repeatedly by me in reference to examinations.)
REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS:
Porter, Philosophy Through Fiction and Film
Phil 111 Course Reader:
Rosenstand, “Stories and Morals”
Rosenstand, The Moral of the Story (TMTS), 6th edition, excerpts (Ch.2 and sections from Ch.13)
Nussbaum, “The Ancient Quarrel”
Proulx, “Man Crawling Out of Trees”, excerpt
Steinbeck, East of Eden, any edition
ASSIGNMENTS: SEE ALSO READING SCHEDULE BELOW
RESEARCH PAPERS Min.3 pages each. Worth max. 50 points each.
1st paper due March 21. Last chance to turn it in: March 23, with -3 points penalty.
2nd paper due April 27. Last chance to turn it in: May 2, with -3 points penalty
I reserve the right to make changes in the syllabus with reasonable advance notice.
IMPORTANT DATES
Jan.24: Fall semester begins
Feb.4: Last day to receive add code issued by the instructor; last day to process and pay for add codes; deadline to
drop classes with no “W” recorded.
Feb.7: Last day to drop and be eligible for refund of enrollment fees and/or non-resident tuition
Feb.28: Last day to file a petition for Pass/No Pass Option
April.1: Withdrawal deadline. No drops accepted after this date!
Spring Break: April 18-23
May 21: End of semester
The Final will be conducted on May 16. On May 18 graded finals and the 2 nd paper will be returned. Attendance is
mandatory.
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Student Code of Conduct:
Students are subject to adhering to the policies and procedures of the San Diego Community College District, as well as all
federal, state, and local laws. Students are subject to charges of misconduct concerning, but not limited to, the following acts
when committed on District-owned or controlled property or a District-sponsored activities as described in policy 3100.
 The taking of and passing off as one’s own work or ideas of another: plagiarism and academic cheating.
 Falsification, alteration or misuse of campus/District documents and records.
 Act or threat of damage to or theft of property belonging to or located on District-controlled property or facilities.
 The physical or verbal disruption of instructional or student services activities, administrative procedures, public
services functions, authorized curricular or co-curricular activities or prevention of authorized guests from carrying
out the purpose for which they are on campus.
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The physical or verbal intimidation or harassment of such severity or pervasiveness as to have the purpose or effect
of unreasonably interfering with a student's academic performance, or a District employee's work performance, or of
creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational or work environment.
 Disorderly, lewd, indecent or obscene conduct or expression or habitual profanity or vulgarity; any expression which
is obscene, libelous or slanderous according to current legal standards or which so incites students as to create a
clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of
the community college. (Ed. Code 76120)
Assault or battery upon a student or district personnel on district premises or at any time or place while under the
authority of District personnel.
 Participation in hazing (California Education Code Sections 32050 through 32052).
 Possession of weapons, explosives, unlicensed dangerous chemicals or objects which may be used as weapons or to
threaten bodily harm, as specified in the California Penal Code or other applicable laws.
 Participating in activities that are in violation of federal, state, or local laws or ordinances while on district premises
or at district-sponsored activities or college/center attendance.
 Smoking on district premises, or in vehicles provided by the district used for transporting students; except as
permitted by applicable ordinances, laws, college guidelines and District procedure 0505.2.
 Use, possession, distribution, or sale of alcoholic beverages on campus except as permitted by law.
 Use, possession, distribution, manufacture or sale of narcotics or other hallucinogenic drugs or substances or
inhaling or breathing the fumes of, or ingesting any poison classified as such by the California Business and
Professions Code Section 4160, Schedule ‘D', except as provided by law, is prohibited when on district premises.
 Violation of Policies & Procedures for Student Organizations as enumerated in Manual 3200.
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TENTATIVE READING SCHEDULE #1
This reading schedule is tentative. It will be updated regularly. The instructor reserves the right to make changes in the
syllabus with reasonable advance notice, and it is the student’s responsibility to stay informed about new reading schedules,
including possible changes in readings and test dates. Readings are for the dates mentioned; that means you have to read the
texts listed, and then we discuss them in class. Whatever we don’t finish during one meeting will be continued next meeting.
Check the website for updated reading lists and study guides. Video presentations are possible, and will not be repeated or
made available outside of class.
Week 1, Jan.24-26:
Introduction; Phil 111 Course Reader: Rosenstand,
“Stories and Morals”
Begin reading Steinbeck’s East of Eden! Read all of it,
but the focus in class will be on the final third.
Steinbeck, East of Eden
(Parts 1-2 “Highlights”; extra credit option; Part 3 and 4:
detailed study)
Week 10, March 28-30
East of Eden, cont’d.
Week 2, Jan.31-Feb.2:
“Stories and Morals” cont’d.
Burton F. Porter, Philosophy Through Fiction and Film,
“Ideals in Living” pp.197-204
Porter: Mill, Utilitarianism pp. 204-212
Week 11, April 4-6
East of Eden wrap-up
Porter, Philosophy Through Fiction and Film, pp.xv-9:
Plato’s Republic
Porter pp.16-23, Rashomon
Week 3: Feb.7-9:
Porter: Kant, Groundwork pp.213-220
Porter, Anouilh, Antigone pp.222-234
Feb.9: Quiz last 20 minutes of class (tentative)
Week 12, Apr.11-13
Porter pp.24-27, Modes of Knowledge
Porter pp.28-36, David Hume
Porter pp.37-49: Descartes’ Meditation 1 and 2
Apr.11: Quiz last 30 minutes of class (tentative)
Week 4: Feb.14-16:
Course Reader: Rosenstand The Moral of the Story
(TMTS) Ch.2 + Primary readings: Plato, Aristotle, Eco,.
Narratives: Medea, The Sorrows of Young Werther
Week 5, Feb. 21-23:
Feb.21: Presidents’ Day
Rosenstand TMTS Ch.2 cont’d + primary reading:
Chandler, and narrative: Pulp Fiction.
[Keep reading East of Eden!]
Week 6, Feb.28-March 2:
TMTS Ch.2 cont’d.
Week 7, March 7-9:
Course Reader: Martha Nussbaum, “The ‘Ancient
Quarrel’”
Review of midterm material
Week 8, March 14-16
March 14, MIDTERM (TENTATIVE)
March 16: Course reader: Annie Proulx, “Man Crawling
Out of Trees”, excerpt
Week 9 March 21-23
1st paper due March 21. Last chance to turn it in: March
23, -3 points penalty.
Nussbaum and Proulx wrap-up
April 18-23 SPRING BREAK
Week 13, Apr.25-27
2nd paper due April 27. Last chance to turn it in: May 2,
-3 points penalty
Porter pp.50-57: Hesse, Siddhartha
Porter pp.77-83, Metaphysics
Week 14, May 2-4
Porter pp.84-89, Thomas Reid
Porter pp. 90-100, Margaret Atwood
Course Reader: Rosenstand TMTS Ch.13, excerpt:
Narrative Identity
Week 15, May 9-11
Wrap-up, review
Week 16, May 16-18
Final exam May 16.
May 18: Return of finals and 2nd paper. No-shows lose 2
points off their final exam.