TLDR;
This video features Professor Shelly Kagan introducing his Philosophy 176 class focused on death. He outlines the course approach, covering philosophical questions rather than psychological or sociological aspects related to death. The course is divided into metaphysical questions in the first half, exploring the nature of death and personal identity, and value theory questions in the second half, addressing the implications of mortality and the ethics of suicide. Kagan emphasizes critical thinking and urges students to engage deeply with the material and each other.
- The course will not cover psychological or sociological topics about death.
- Emphasis on philosophical questions about personal identity and mortality.
- Grading will focus heavily on the quality of papers and class participation.
What This Class Is NOT, and What This Class Is [0:00]
Professor Kagan introduces himself and the course topic, which is philosophy regarding death. He notes that the class will not cover psychological or sociological aspects of death, such as the grieving process or the funeral industry. Instead, it will focus on philosophical inquiries about the nature of existence, personal identity, and what it means to die. He stresses the importance of understanding what topics are not covered to manage expectations.
Common Views on Death Are Wrong: How This Class Is Taught [6:38]
Kagan discusses common beliefs about souls, immortality, and the nature of death that many students may hold. He describes the typical assumptions that death is inherently bad, that humans possess a soul, and the irrationality of suicide because life is precious. He aims to challenge and argue against these widespread beliefs throughout the course, encouraging students to think critically about their views on death and existence.
Course Requirements, Materials, and Format [14:20]
The format of the class will include lectures twice a week and discussion sections. Kagan explains the syllabus, outlining reading requirements and the importance of engaging with the material, even emphasizing that grades will be partially based on participation in discussion sections. He notes that while the readings will support lectures, students must engage with both to fully grasp the course content.
On Grading Thoughts on Death [21:03]
Kagan addresses the grading policy, discussing his reputation as a harsh grader. He clarifies what constitutes a good grade and how papers will be evaluated, emphasizing that improvement over the semester will be rewarded. The course will consist of three papers and participation in discussion sections, with particular weight given to the students' later work to encourage development.
Student Evaluations and Invitation [38:50]
Kagan reads excerpts from previous student evaluations to illustrate diverse opinions on his teaching style and the course. He invites students to engage, ask questions, and explore the challenging content together. He encourages open dialogue while making clear the significance of class participation in shaping the learning experience and achieving academic success in the course.
