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Introduction to Philosophy through Film PHIL 101-H1.

Background

There is an important distinction between the philosophy of film (more about the filmmaking and the techniques used in filmmaking) and philosophy through film. In an interview in April, 2004 with James Merendino of SLC Punk, the director speculated that production companies don't consider making movies about philosophy, even about universally known historical figures like Aristotle or Socrates, because no one would go to them. "The reason is that even highbrow studios like Miramax think that a story about a dead philosopher is too dry and intellectual." But the fact is movies that incorporate themes and ideas, that is, philosophical dilemmas and hypotheticals, are easily embraced by directors and enjoyed by audiences. These movies are not dry and intellectual documentaries but rather engaging and compelling human dramas. The philosophical ideas are "slipped in" so the audience hook is subtle. The story is the entre; once the audience is emotionally involved, the issues become part of the narrative. When the ideas are packaged in an appealing way, the message is delivered and interpreted more easily.

In addition to illustrating philosophical ideas, films can be vehicles for actually doing philosophy; students engage in philosophical thought experiments when viewing films such as The Matrix (1999), Memento (2000), and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004). “Thought experiments involve imaginary scenarios in which readers are asked to imagine what things would be like if such-and-such were the case. Those who think that films can actually do philosophy point out that fiction films can function as philosophical thought experiments and thus qualify as philosophical.” (Wartenberg, Thomas, "Philosophy of Film", The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Winter 2011 Edition), Edward N. Zalta (ed.), forthcoming URL = <http://plato.stanford.edu/archives/win2011/entries/film/>.)

What to Expect:

In class we will watch some films and discuss the philosophical issues they raise. On the off -weeks you will be expected to view movies with similar philosophical issues and write responses (conduct your own thought experiments). In addition, the graded online discussions will help you process the material and write a reflection paper.

The online segments will be asynchronous to the extent that you can go at your own pace and complete each assignment according to your own schedule, albeit within a specific timeframe. There is a fair amount of reading, primary and secondary texts, to help you with your arguments. You are expected to complete the assigned readings before each face-to-face class. When we convene, I will randomly select three students to moderate the discussion. Therefore, it is essential that you complete the readings before class.

What to Do Now

Please review the syllabus and peruse the attached files on this front page (homepage if you will), particularly the learning outcomes matrix: this document outlines just what you are expected to learn this semester. The list of quizzes, assignments, and reflection papers will give you a good idea of what is expected; that is, what you will be graded on. It also includes due dates so you can plan accordingly. Check out the syllabus for the grading parameters, too.

During the semester you should return to this page often; most general documents are here for your reference (they are also on the modules).

Feel free to jump right in - click on Modules in the left-hand navigation bar and follow the plan . Have a great semester!

Ms. Ambrose

Useful Documents

Syllabus - Phil through Film - Spring 2013.doc

OUTCOMES BASED LEARNING MATRIX.doc

Notable Philosophers.docx

Major Works by Major Philosophers.doc