It'll be nice when we can finally ditch the masks too... and we can whenever we take ourselves outside, which we'll do often in this course. That was always going to be the case, pandemic or no, because I prefer the peripatetic tradition in philosophy. More on that soon. Know for now that you'll want to wear comfortable shoes to class, and early on maybe bring a chilly pad too. (If you're unable to participate in peripatetic pedagogy we'll accommodate you with alternative activities, of course.)
I'll tell you in class why I call my version of the Intro course "CoPhilosophy." But maybe you can guess, from the William James quote above.
I invite you all to introduce yourselves in the comments section below, and answer some very basic questions: Who are you? Why are you here? (in this course, on this campus, in this state, on this planet...) What do you think Philosophy is? Do you have a favorite philosopher? Do you have an easily-summarized personal philosophy? (Maybe something short like Charlie Brown's sister Sally's?--"No!")
We'll not go over the syllabus too closely, or get bogged down in the nuts and bolts of course mechanics on Day One; there's plenty of time for those details later. Peruse this blogsite and syllabus (linked in the right margin) before next class and let me know what's unclear. Meanwhile, read your classmates' intros and post your own. (Bear in mind: this is an open site, visible to the wide world if they happen to be interested.)
Back to my own introduction:
We'll not go over the syllabus too closely, or get bogged down in the nuts and bolts of course mechanics on Day One; there's plenty of time for those details later. Peruse this blogsite and syllabus (linked in the right margin) before next class and let me know what's unclear. Meanwhile, read your classmates' intros and post your own. (Bear in mind: this is an open site, visible to the wide world if they happen to be interested.)
Back to my own introduction:
I live in Nashville with my wife, Younger Daughter (who graduated from this institution last spring), two dogs we "rescued" in 2018 (Nell, a sweet & gentle Pit/Boxer, and Pita, a sweet and feisty Dachsund/Lab), and an ornery old cat called Zeus. Older Daughter lives in California.
My office is 300 James Union Building (JUB). Office hours are listed in the right sidebar.
I've been at MTSU since the early '00s, teaching philosophy courses on diverse subjects including atheism, childhood, happiness, the environment (here's my Honors Lecture on the subject, if you're interested), evolution, the future, epistemology, identity, metaphysics, Anglo-American philosophy, consciousness, enlightenment, rationality, bioethics... I'm always open to working with students on Independent Readings courses as well, if you don't find a listed course in something you're interested in. Let me know if I can ever help you with that.
My Ph.D. is from Vanderbilt. I'm originally from Missouri, near St. Louis. My undergrad degree is from the University of Missouri ("Mizzou") in Columbia MO. (I wish my schools weren't in the SEC-I don't approve of the inordinate emphasis on major collegiate sports culture or football brain injuries, as I'm sure to tell you again.) I'm a baseball fan, as I'm also sure to tell you again. That's why we use baseball scorecards to track daily attendance and participation.
My philosophical expertise, such as it is, centers on the American philosophical tradition of William James and John Dewey. I wrote William James's Springs of Delight: The Return to Life.
I blog (Up@dawn, Delight Springs...) and tweet (@osopher). Follow me if you want to. But of course, as Brian Cohen said, you don't have to follow me or anyone else. And as Immanuel Kant said: Sapere aude!
So you don't have to follow me, but when a blog or audio link ("LISTEN") or video turns up you might find it helpful to read, listen, or watch.
One way I like to introduce my conception of philosophy is by reflecting on the late great Douglas Adams's "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy"--
I've already alluded to Monty Python's Brian. Their Argument Clinic is also helpful, in introducing a notion of philosophical and conversational decorum in the classroom.
A philosophical argument isn't just saying "No!" (There's an answer to Sally Brown.)
I think maybe the best way to further introduce myself, in my capacity as your professor in this course, is to introduce you to some recommended texts, videos, and pdocasts:
William James, Pragmatism lecture 1; Gymnasiums of the Mind (on the Peripatetic philosophy); Pale Blue Dot, & WATCH: Pale Blue Dot (Sagan). Also recommended, for general knowledge: What's Philosophy for? School of Life (SoL); LISTEN: What is Philosophy? and Who's Your Favourite Philosopher? (PB Philosophy Bites). And check out the This I Believe website, for examples of others' personal philosophies succinctly summarized.
But, enough about me. Who are you? (Where are you from, where have you been, what do you like, who do you want to become,...?) Why are you here? (On Earth, in Tennessee, at MTSU, in philosophy class)? What is"philosophy" to you? Do you have a personal philosophy you can summarize in a few words? A favorite philosopher? Reply below with your introduction, and read your classmates' intros.
P.S. Please always include your section number (H1, H2, or H3) in your introduction, and in all subsequent posts on this site.
Always look for our upcoming assignments under "NEXT" in the sidebar, upper right.
Always post comments, questions, links etc. pertaining to the assigned readings prior to class.
Look for my dated Questions posts, before each scheduled class date, if you need prompts for what to post.
(H03) I’m Channing Martin, I’m originally from Alabama, but moved to Nashville about two years ago. I’m a speech language pathology major, and at MTSU because I love the almost familiar feel of campus and being only an hour away from my family and friends. Planet wise, not so sure, though. Hopefully it’ll be clear soon. I don’t have a favorite philosopher, and most of it goes over my head, but I do have a favorite topic of interest, which is this: what do we naturally owe people? How much of your time and energy do you owe your family, friends, the world? In my mind, philosophy is what you think, how you think, and how your manner differentiates from everyone else. My own personal philosophy, if it counts, would be the modified “she who hesitates is lost” from Joseph Addison’s play Cato.
ReplyDeleteThanks for going first, Channing, and for persevering when at first the site wouldn't publish your intro. If anyone else has that problem let me know, I'll send you an author invitation and that might fix it.
DeleteWhat we owe other people is a classic and perennial ethical questions philosophers continue to wrestle with. My own answer: minimally we owe them recognition as fellow members of the human community, with all the implied respect and consideration that implies. (For instance, it implies an obligation to get your COVID vaccine so as to help protect your fellow humans from the scourge of plague.)
I like your philosophy. It's kind of the flip-side of one of mine, expressed by Wm James this way: "Our errors are surely not such awfully solemn things..." (See the rest of that statement in the right sidebar, above his and his daughter's photo.) In other words, it's okay to swing and miss. Even the best hitters strike out.
What we owe other people is a classic and perennial ethical QUESTION...
DeleteMaking the point about the inevitability of errors.
My name is Thomas Freeman, and I've lived in Tennessee my whole life. I'm an astronomy major, as I've always held a deep fascination for all the weird sights that lie beyond the Earth's atmosphere. Even though I myself will never have the opportunity to explore them in my lifetime, I've always thought that studying them would be the closest I could come. I chose MTSU as it is within driving distance of my house, and I didn't want to get too far from the places I call home. I don't have a favorite philosopher, but I've always believed that pursuing happiness is the primary drive of people. And in turn that is what I try to put first for myself. Sort of like a quest to find what things make me happy and where I truly belong in this massive universe. And hopefully a greater outlook on philosophy can help me in this process.
ReplyDeletePHIL-H01
Also I tried to get my MTSU email to work for publishing here but I was unable, so I just used my default email because I'm obviously not as tech-savvy as I often assume I am.
And I see it posted my name as "Unknown." Sounds very mysterious, I'll try to get it resolved in the future
DeleteI share your fascination with things astronomic and cosmic, Thomas. My hero Carl Sagan noted that a true cosmopolitan is not merely a citizen of the world (as philosophers like Diogenes and Plato affirmed) but of the cosmos itself. In that light, it is simply not possible to "get too far from the places [we] call home." Cosmopolitans are at home wherever they are.
DeletePursuing happiness is indeed central to the human experience. My other hero William James put it this way:
"If we were to ask the question: 'What is human life's chief concern?' one of the answers we should receive would be: “It is happiness.” How to gain, how to keep, how to recover happiness, is in fact for most men at all times the secret motive of all they do, and of all they are willing to endure."
And that's why I teach a course called The Philosophy of Happiness, TTh 2:40.
Maybe change the drop-down menu below from Anonymous...
(H-02) Hello, my name is Tyler Martin. I am from McMinnville, Tennessee where I have resided for my entire life. I, like Dr. Oliver, enjoy baseball as I played in high school. I am majoring in Biology - Physiology at MTSU. I came to this particular college because I enjoy staying close to home and am already familiar with, and enjoy the Murfreesboro area. I am taking this course because I feel that each person has their own individual perspective of the world and would like to learn more about those perspectives in order to maybe change mine for the better. I understand philosophy to be the pursuit of knowledge through thought and questioning the nature of anything. I do not have a favorite philosopher but am excited to learn about them. My own personal philosophy would be to embrace positivity. Too many times people face some kind of hardship and they fall into the negativity of the situation because that is what is easy. However, if one were to embrace the positivity in their life, it will create a better outlook and likely a more prosperous existence.
ReplyDeletePositivity is good. But I prefer neither optimism nor pessimism. See the post below, "Pragmatic meliorism"...
Delete(H01) Hi, my name is Natalie Phillips. I am from Clinton, Tennessee, which is about 45 minutes away from Knoxville. I chose to come to MTSU mainly to be away from my family and hometown, and to start my own life. I am majoring in psychology. To be completely honest, I am not sure why I am here on this planet. My life has not been very eventful and I have not changed anyone's life. I do not have a favorite philosopher, either, but I am open to any recommendations. I do not know much about philosophy, or how to properly philosophize, but I do like to rattle off ideas and to wonder. My own big question in life is, "how hard is it to become your own person and not be stuck in a cycle of continuance of your parents' and families' lifestyles."
ReplyDeleteBecoming your own person, sorting through your familial inheritance and separating the wheat from the chaff... Our book "Why Grow Up" will address the importance of doing that.
DeleteH2 not H1
Delete(H03) My name is Andrew Michael, and I was born in Egypt. My family moved to TN in '05, and we have lived here ever since. I've chosen this course not only to further my philosophical knowledge but also because Kirolos, my brother, recommended you as a professor! I've chosen MTSU to pursue my desire of becoming a practicing physician through joining the MSEAP with Meharry. I don't know many, if any, philosophers but highly value grit and respect. I have always been fascinated by the level of respect in Japanese culture and have gradually increased my grit through playing soccer.
ReplyDeleteBest regards to Kirolos! And thank him for the referral...
Delete(H01) Hello! My name is Cassandra Perrone, however, I prefer to go by Cassie. I was born In Long Island, New York, and moved to Spring Hill, Tennessee when I was 9 years old. Currently, I have 3 dogs (a shih tzu named Stella Grace, a shih tzu named Brooklyn, and a dachshund named Daphne) as well as quite a few Japanese Koi fish (as well as Shubunkins which are sort of like fancy tailed goldfish) in a pond my dad and I built in our backyard! I am a Forensic Science major with a minor in Honors. My dream career is to be a Forensic Pathologist... or in other words, a doctor for the dead; I want to conduct autopsies and figure out how people have died. It seems brutal, but someone has to do it! My thesis revolves around cloning Industrial Hemp and comparing the cannabinoid profiles between successive generations grown. Along with school, I also tutor for the Biology department! Now to the questions...
ReplyDeleteI am here at MTSU to become a well rounded student before getting my masters (hopefully at MTSU) and then heading to medical school (probably UTHSC in Memphis). I may be a science nerd, however, I do not know a thing about philosophy; I do not have a favorite philosopher, but hopefully I will have one by the end of this course! I don't necessarily have a personal philosophy, but I do remind myself to keep striving to be the best I can be and to keep moving forward even when things do not work out. As my last minute senior quote says "I have not failed 10,000 times, I have found 10,000 ways that do not work"-Thomas Edison
"Keep moving forward" is a pretty good personal philosophy. It worked for Edison.
Delete(H01) My name is Natalie McGarrity and I am from Spring Hill, Tennessee. I am an aspiring Spanish teacher who loves to learn. I am at MTSU because it is affordable and close to home, but I am in this class because I would like to learn more about the functions of thought to better understand the thoughts of the people around me.
ReplyDeleteThough I do not have a favorite philosopher, I hope that I will find one while working in this course. My personal philosophy is to learn for the love of it rather than the grade, but I would like to learn how to expand that thought and make an actual teaching philosophy using what I learn in this course. I am excited to be learning philosophy and I cannot wait to use it in the future.
You must have seen my question below about grading and ungrading...
DeleteI'm glad you're seeking a teaching philosophy, I think we've all encountered too many teachers who've never thought about it (and it shows).
(H01) Hello, everyone! My name is Hannah Litvjak; I was born in St. Cloud, Florida, but raised here in Murfreesboro. I am a business major who is trying not to be sucked in by the cynical nature of a business major. As someone who loves to write, exploring different philosophies fuels both my contentment and troublement, so naturally I chose this class out of the hopes that I would enjoy it. MTSU seemed to be close-knit in community, and I felt that it was my best choice to learn and come out of my shell a little. I'd like to think my worldly purpose is to provide consideration and invoke an honest kindness out of the people I meet. In other words, I just want to try to enjoy life and try to give people the patience that I believe is so short-handed in our society.
ReplyDeleteI do not have a favorite philosopher, however one of my favorite authors who I enjoy reading their social commentary and ideals is F. Scott Fitzgerald. I'm excited to dip further into philosophy and scramble my brain from connecting with different perspectives on humanities biggest questions. I have always believed that philosophy is tapping within ourselves to find, explore and determine what makes up "us", as well as the world we live in.
My main philosophy is to learn to coexist with our troubles. I have found out that fighting directly with things that impact us negatively can sometimes twist our view of ourselves in a cynical light, whereas coexistence is both an acknowledgement and humbling way to lighten our burdens.
I look forward to seeing everyone on the first day. :)
P.S. Surprise, I'm actually in H02. Sorry H01. Also my name being "Unknown" is slightly pretentious, so let's hope I can figure out a way to change that haha.
DeleteI'm a big Fitzgerald fan, I love the "green light" at the end of Gatsby. Also, his version of Keats's "negative capability"...
Delete(H01) Hi! I'm Wyn Knoch (if you can pronounce that right on the first try you win). I'm from Ooltewah TN, right outside of Chattanooga, and I'm stoked to be on my own in college. To be perfectly honest, I have not one single idea what philosophy really is or what mine would be. I'm terrible at debating and I'm totally indecisive on everything. I'm an animation major so my brain is wired towards... pretty much the opposite of this class. However! I want to learn! My poor artist brain is open to the delicious philosophy stew!!! I'm absolutely so excited for this class and meeting everyone-- I have bright red hair, so you can't ignore me haha. It's gonna be a great year!
ReplyDeleteKnock knock, who's there?
DeleteMy good friend who teaches in Virginia grew up in Ooltewah.
I'm not sure animation and philosophizing are opposites. The Simpsons are often philosophical, for instance...
It IS gonna be a great year!
Love the pun, but not quite!
Delete(H01) Hi, I'm Eva Ryman, and I'm a freshman with an Apparel Design major. I've lived in Tennessee my whole life, and I'm from a small town north of Nashville. I love exchanging ideas, values, and thoughts, as well as having deep conversations, so I decided to take this class in hopes of learning from others that share the love of deep thinking. I believe that this exchange of deep ideas is one of the biggest reasons I am here on Earth, since serious topics are such an important and yet, in my opinion, under-discussed part of life.
ReplyDeleteI can't say I know enough about philosophy to have a favorite philosopher. However, I have learned about a few of the more well-known philosophers before, such as Socrates and Aristotle, and their ideas definitely gave me a fresh perspective on a few different issues. I hope that, by the end of the semester, I have learnt enough to have a favorite philosopher.
I would say that my main philosophy is, in essence, standing by my core beliefs while still accepting and accommodating others'. Too often, I feel, people adopt a "my way or the high way" mentality when it comes to opinions and beliefs. However, I feel that this approach is both toxic and ineffective, as it bars someone from fully understanding another's point of view. Respecting someone else's point of view, even if it directly contradicts your own, is the only way to really understand other people, and even to really understand your own opinions.
I look forward to meeting everyone on the first day, and getting to know everyone throughout the semester.
"Toxic" is exactly the word for that exclusionary attitude. The search for wisdom can't succeed, if we can't learn to listen to one another. I don't always respect others' povs, but I do always try to respect their humanity.
DeleteMy name is Logan Seitz, i am on this planet because my parents accidentally had a second child, I am in this state because this is where my parents decided to live and… well… you know in state public schools make the most sense to attend from a value perspective I’d say. I chose MTSU because they were the only in-state public school I could find with an audio-production program, and I am in this course because been fairly I te rested in philosophy for a while, but that interest was sparked when I found the crash course philosophy series on YouTube. I think philosophy is the process by which people answer life’s biggest questions using only the instrument of thought. My favorite philosopher currently is Albert Camus. I gained interest in him after doing some research on the way I was feeling when I was 15 and I found out I was having what was called “an existential crisis” I’ve read his book The Stranger, but I’m more interested in The Myth of Sisyphus. My personal philosophy could be summarized by the quote from (I believe it’s from him at least) Camus, “One must imagine Sisyphus happy,” Look foreward to meeting everyone!
ReplyDeleteNot "only the instrument of thought," also the instruments of collaboration, communication, attention, and (as just noted) patient listening. But critical thinking is central to all of that.
DeleteIf Sisyphus was happy, we all should be!
(H02) Hi everyone! My name is Jodi Carpenter, and I grew up in La Vergne, TN, which is only 30 minutes north of Murfreesboro. I haven't ventured outside Tennessee that much so far, but I hope to travel often in the future. I love creating art, and I might want to go into the graphic design field; however, I am currently an integrated studies major and am not fully sure of what I want to become yet. I'm not sure why I am here on Earth yet, but I am at MTSU because it is affordable.
ReplyDeleteTo me, philosophy is the way we rationalize our existence in the world. I don't have a personal philosophy nor a favorite philosopher, but that's the reason I'm in this class. I don't know a whole lot about philosophy, but I'm excited to learn!!
Kant never ventured much outside Konigsburg either, but his mind took him across the universe...
Delete(HO2) Hey everybody! I'm Gracie Fogo from Chattanooga, Tn. I am a Journalism major. I have been to a few places and I want to travel to many more. I've enjoyed time in Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, and my favorite Sweden. I love traveling, finding accepting environments, being in nature, going on adventures, learning about new cultures, listening to music, and spending time with the people I love.
ReplyDeleteI also love to write about things that are important to me and share them with the world. I love writing about causes I truly believe in. My dream job is to write for an outdoor magazine or be a communications director for an organization that does a lot of good.
I am taking this class because I missed an incredible opportunity to learn philosophy in high school and I still want to learn about it. I am here at MTSU because it is a good, not too expensive school that is not too close to home. And I guess I'm here in TN because its where I ended up in the birth lottery.
To me Philosophy is deep thinking. It is when someone things about anything that goes beyond the everyday blur of life and tries to clarify things for themselves and/or others. My personal philosophy is to be genuine, know there is always new things to learn, and to be an advocate in all moments whenever I can. My favorite philosopher(s), while not a classic, are the Avett Brothers. They are the song writers in a folk band and I think just about all of their songs are works of art and words to live by.
That was an incredible opportunity. I never heard of philosophy, as I recall, 'til I got to college.
DeleteMy daughter was an Avett Bros. fan, guess I should give them a listen. There's much philosophy in the best music, as in poetry... showing that "deep thinking" can take a variety of forms.
I love to travel too! It’s cool because I’m always finding something new to try out. Sweden is a really cool place to visit. I would like to travel outside the U.S. at some point. Also I like how you brought up musicians/song writers. I am more likely to listen to a song with philosophic meaning more than once to really get the message.
DeleteMy name is Nate Hutson, I'm an incoming freshman from St. Louis, MO. I'm here as a Music Industry major but I'm also working towards becoming a professional and touring musician. Some of my bigger inspirations and interests include Bowie, Grateful Dead, Bootsy Collins, Sublime, and The Doors. MTSU has the locational and educational benefits I'm looking for, the work is up to me. I'm here to push and test my own limits, the only one I truly would like to impress is myself. I think philosophy is a study on not exactly human behavior, but human reason and thought, not so much instinctual, more like what comes after the base of our cognitive abilities, the icing on the cake. As of right now (and it probably will not change,) I'd say my favorite philosopher would be The Dude. The dude abides! My personal simplified philosophy all circles around the idea of the pursuit of happiness and how we can learn to empathize and support others by reflecting on our own ambitions and applying those feelings towards other people and the depths of their existence. For me, it makes their significance, struggles, and role on Earth much more prominent, it turns those passing by from a stranger, to a pioneer - someone of importance. Because everyone deserves to be seen as important.
ReplyDeleteH3
DeleteI like your idea of linking the pursuit of personal happiness with empathy for others, a recognition that (as James Taylor sang in the concert I attended last week) "there are ties between us, all men and women living on the earth..."
Delete(H2) My name is Alex Wiseman, I'm a freshman here at MTSU and I major in Video and Film Production. I'm coming to MTSU from Upstate New York, but I've been in Tennessee for over a year now. I chose to major in Film because visual storytelling has always been my ideal medium for communicating my ideas and passions. My goal is to one day translate the stories in my head onto the silver screen for all to see. I'm interested in taking philosophy so I can gain a better understanding of how others throughout time have seen the world, and how they interpreted the so called "Meaning of Life". Only living inside one head is frankly boring, getting to understand how others see the world is a crucial part of being a human being. On a personal basis, my own philosophy is still in development. Instead of forming it intentionally on my own I believe it will form by itself throughout my life based on the experiences I will encounter. As of right now all I can say is I choose to take life as it comes, as frustrating or challenging as that can be sometimes. I ended up here in Tennessee due to a series of circumstances, and everyone's lives are formed due to circumstance. All one can do is roll with the tide of time and seize the opportunities you're presented with. I am yet to find a favorite philosopher, but I'm sure over the course of this course I'll be introduced to one that connects with me.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you're on track to become a pragmatic pluralist. Join the club!
Delete(H01) My name is Jordan Reining. I am a freshman and am originally from Georgia, however I moved here around 5 years ago. I chose to take this course because it sounded interesting. Mtsu is close to home and cheap, making it a good choice to attend. Philosophy to me, is thinking, along with how we live. I do not have a favorite philospher, as I know very little about philosophy, but hopefully that will change with this course. I am not sure this counts as a personal philosphy, and I am aware it is rather cliche, but 'You only live once' does often impact my choices and behavior. I think it is a good statement to live by.
ReplyDelete"You only live once" is one of those profound insights that gets watered down into cliche by repetition, but it really does have the power to change your life. We'll revisit the idea when we talk about Nietzsche's "eternal recurrence"...
Delete(H03) Nice to meet you all! My name is Brielle Walmsley. I am from Mt. Juliet, and I am a sophomore this year. I have two majors, Pro Pilot and Flight Dispatch. The aerospace department is what brings me to the MTSU campus.
ReplyDeleteI have never taken a philosophy course, but I do enjoy raising philosophic questions from time to time.
I do not have a favorite philosopher, but I read a good amount of Henry David Thoreau. From reading his works, I have been introduced to more of life’s big questions. Personally, I believe that nothing is set in stone. I have seen many contradictions and conditions in my life to say that I think there’s usually an exception. I do think that there a very few universally absolute truths. I also believe that everything I hold to be true can change in an instant. I have learned a lot, but I don’t think I know a lot about anything really.
I'm also a Thoreau fan. I love the last lines of Walden, "there is more day to dawn, the sun is but a morning star" etc.
Delete(H2) Hello. My name is Camron Stevens, and I am a freshman here at MTSU. Currently, I am majoring in Film and Video Production and living on campus. I have spent my years prior to college living in Memphis, TN and enjoyed much of my time there. However, I wanted to venture outside of my comfort zone and experience a different environment which is why I decided to attend MTSU.
ReplyDeleteI do not know much about philosophy, but I hope to learn more because this course seems fairly intriguing to me. Since I have little knowledge of philosophy, I do not possess a favorite philosopher. Throughout this course, I am hoping to better understand the interworks of philosophy and gain more knowledge on specific philosophers and their ideas.
I always aim to be"fairly intriguing"... and to get inside the "interworks" (if that's not a word it should be)...
DeleteIntroduction to Philosophy (H3)
ReplyDeleteHello, I'm Katelyn Hampton. I would say I am here specifically going to MTSU to further my education in hopes to get my bachelors in Social Work. I chose to attend MTSU because of its closeness to my hometown Chattanooga but being far enough to have some independence. To me philosophy is having the capability to broaden your inner thoughts on beliefs you may have and share and express those internal ideas openly to others in a respectful manner whether you and someone else or people share the same opinions. At the moment I do not have a favorite philosopher but I hope that will change soon. I guess a personal philosophy saying that I commonly think of is "Perfectly Imperfect" it's probably cliché to some but for me its a great reminder that I'm not perfect and that's ok and recognizing such imperfections I have room to grow and work on myself.
Perfection would be boring. That's one reason I prefer Aristotle to Plato, whose notion of eternal and perfect Forms I find less challenging that his student's emphasis on striving to realize our potential, like the acorn and the oak.
DeleteHi, I'm Tyler Lansford. I'm here in Philosophy mainly to satisfy credit needs, but also because I truly am a little bit interested in what all I can learn from the course. I currently am undecided on my major but it's not that big of a deal. I have plenty of time and this way I can work on knocking out some gen ed's while I'm finding what I love. When I think of Philosophy, I think of the paintings and statues I've seen of ancient thinkers, but also teachers and friends who I have been in discussions with about things you wouldn't expect to talk about with strangers. I currently don't have a favorite philosopher, but I have always enjoyed Plato's Allegory of the Cave. That's a cool one to me. If I were to summarize my personal philosophy, I would say that I try my best to "roll with the punches" of life. It can suck sometimes, but I know that there is a purpose for it all. I'm looking forward to starting this class!
ReplyDelete(HO3)
DeleteAlways good to be "a little bit interested" in your course of study...
DeleteWe'll talk about the cave. Are we in one? Plato suggests we are, but Socrates seems more likely to wonder how we could ever know that...
(H03) My name is Gabe Weible and I’m from Louisville, Kentucky. I’m first and foremost a percussionist but I would consider myself a multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar, drums). I’m an audio production major and hope to become a sound engineer, producer, or maybe even an artist. I came to MTSU for the ability to study audio production which is one of the best places in the U.S. you can pursue this degree. The degree isn’t offered in Kentucky so I was able to use in-state tuition which was definitely a deciding factor as well. I know very little about philosophy but I am excited to learn more and I have a feeling I’m going to really enjoy it and want to study it further. I don’t have a favorite philosopher yet but I admire Jimi Hendrix both as a musician and as a person/thinker. My favorite quote of his is, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace”. He demonstrates a lot of humanistic and even philosophical ideas through his music and lyrics and I strive to incorporate them into my own life and philosophy. I’m all about supporting and caring for others, spreading love and positivity, and inspiring others to grow and bring more creativity into their lives. There’s probably a part of philosophy that includes this and I look forward to learning what it is!
ReplyDeleteLove is a big part of Plato's philosophy, as for instance in his Symposium. The American philosopher Peirce also wrote of love as a metaphysical force in the universe. And the Beatles of course...
Delete(H02) Hello! My name is Thomas Morowsky, I'm from Camden, TN, and am a Freshman currently majoring in English (with a focus on Creative Writing). For my hobbies, it's easy to guess that I highly enjoy writing, but in specific I'd say I enjoy collaborative creative writing, as well as playing video games and reading (when something catches my attention, that is). I'm going into Creative Writing with intent to become a Narrative Designer (Or, in simpler terms, a Game Writer) as videogames and storytelling have been passions of mine since my youth.
ReplyDeleteWhile I did choose to partake in this Philosophy course as it met my credit requirements, Philosophy in particular stood out to me as a potential interesting course among my selection of choices. It's never been something I've delved too deep in, but I'm excited to gain a deeper understanding of the topic and perhaps get some self-understanding out of it. Were I to summarize philosophy's entirety, a big task for one of my limited understanding of it, it would perhaps be something along the lines of "contemplating the semantics of the universe." I don't know if there's a name to it, but my personal philosophy may be along the lines of naturally wanting to provide equity to others and that humanity should seek out happiness.
By the way, you may find I'm much less talkative in class than over text, so I apologize in advance and welcome you to drag me out of my shell. I'm not a very vocal person, but that usually doesn't mean my head is empty.
I wasn't very vocal as a freshman. One of the things I value most about education is that it emboldened me to speak. Just takes practice. Peripatetic days ahead should help too.
Delete(H03)
ReplyDeleteHello, I'm Ryan Steadman.
I'm living in Corlew, moved from Knoxville Tennessee. (Originally lived in upstate New York). I'm an incoming freshman to MTSU, graduating from West High school this year.
I enjoy writing and reading, as well as a hefty amount of video games. As cliché as it is for my age group, I am making some cash streaming and editing videos to post online. I'm also currently teaching myself to 3D model, beginning with a doughnut and coffee that has been turning out well. I intend to go into Film and Post Production, but my exact path is not yet clear. Hopefully I can latch onto an interest and go for it in the next four or so years!
As for my relation to MTSU and Philosophy, I came to MTSU because of the location close to Nashville (a place ripe for job opportunities in my potential endpoints for this major) and the reputation of the media branch. I joined this philosophy course both to fill in my honors requirements and to get into a class that is more based on discussion and writing than regurgitating mathematics (not my strong point). I do not yet have a favorite philosopher in terms of their views, however I find stories about Diogenes the cynic interesting to hear about. (I don't know enough of the actual views of any philosopher yet to know if I like any of them. Hopefully that will change soon.)
I hope to be as active in class as my brain allows, this seems like it will be a good change of pace as well as an overall interesting class to learn things I haven't heard before.
Diogenes was indeed a character, wandering in daylight with a lamp looking for honest humans and living in a "barrel" etc.
Delete(H02) Hello my name is Aaron Lou and I'm from Nashville Tennessee. I graduated from Antioch high school and I'm a freshmen. I'm coming to MTSU to study exercise science and hopefully I can become a physical therapist. I love talking to people and seeing what they think and why they think in that fashion. I don't have a particular quote but my philosophy of life is to live it to its fullest with no regrets left behind me. I'm not too knowledgeable about philosophy but I'm willing to learn and listen about the complexity of it!
ReplyDeleteRegrets are inevitable, the trick is to forgive yourself and learn from your mistakes as you move forward.
Delete(H03) Hello my name is Matthew and I’m from Nashville, Tennessee. I’m a sophomore studying audio production, and chose mtsu based on the quality and size of our music industry colleges here. I enjoy playing music and hope to one day make a living as a working musician, or by being a producer or live sound engineer. I do not know too much about philosophy, but want to learn about different ideas and expand my understanding of different perspectives. Most of the philosophical thoughts I’ve been exposed to are from songwriters, such as John Prine or Kris Kristopherson, and this has had a big impact on how I see the world now, I hope to learn about more philosophy’s in this class that will impact me in the same way.
ReplyDeleteJohn Prine! "When I get to heaven I'm gonna take that wristwatch off my arm. What are you gonna do with time
DeleteAfter you've bought the farm?"
Hey my name is Kaitlyn Williams, I'm from Murfreesboro. I'm a freshman, and my major is exercise science. My goal is to be a physical therapist.
ReplyDeleteThis is my first philosophy class and I'm excited to learn more about philosophers and what others think. I do not have a favorite philosopher but the way I look at life is to try to do the best that you can for yourself and for others.
H3
DeleteOne of my PTs asked me to give her a philosophical question every time I saw her. You should be that kind of PT!
Delete(H1) Hello, my name is Carlos Arias Diaz. I was born in Nashville and lived there for about three years, then moved to La Vergne, where I have stayed since then. I like music quite a bit, which is why I'm majoring in audio production. My goal with that is to become a music producer, successful enough to earn a comfortable living doing what he loves, but not aiming for insane fame (though that's not to say that I would mind being insanely famous). I'm not quite sure why my parents decided to station themselves in Tennessee, but they did and here I am. I'm not upset about their decision, though. It allowed me to come to MTSU, a school well known for its music program. I took philosophy in order to expand my knowledge on the topic and to find points of view that I perhaps would've never come across on my own. Philosophy, to me, with the limited knowledge that I have of it, is the way of interpreting your world subjectively. I would say my personal philosophy would involve knowing that there is always room for improvement and to strive for growth. I cannot think of a favourite philosopher at the moment, ask me again when the semester is over.
ReplyDeleteI will.
Delete(H1) Hey, my name is Bryson Chandler. I'm here at MTSU because it is affordable, close to home, and has the classes for what I want to major in. I am in this course because thinking deeper has always been something I do and want to do more. I think philosophy is looking into everything a little bit more so that you can understand what it is and why it is the way it is. This can give you a much deeper appreciation of life. Being able to look back and see how certain things have impacted the present and then being able to truly understand that everything in your life can change in a moment really changes how much you appreciate life. I guess the closest thing that I have to a personal philosophy is "Love every moment of life and live in every moment of love." Life is too short to not be appreciated and loved at every moment and love is too rare and too powerful to not be lived in at every possible chance.
ReplyDeleteI don't know about EVERY moment, some of them (frankly) suck. We pragmatists think it our task to try and improve the ratio. Fatalists and determinists and some stoics, though, say "amor fati"--love your fate, whatever it may be.
Delete(H3) Hi, I'm Jadon Deaton. I was born in Florida but I moved to Georgia when I was three and lived there ever since. Some things that I like are movies and tv shows. I also really enjoy listening to all kinds of music (especially Christmas). In addition, I am also a huge fan of Star Wars, Marvel, and DC superheroes. I'm even a swimmer as well. One reason I'm at MTSU is because it was the affordable choice and I actually really like the environment and campus. But I'm also here because I believe I was meant to be. I feel like with my faith, God gave me a purpose to be here on campus and even on this Earth. My faith is one of the roots of why I continue to strive in my daily life. But on another note, I feel like philosophy is a better understanding of the world around us; a growth in wisdom, reflection, and perspective. I would say that one of my favorite philosophers is Sokrates. I couldn't tell you why but I feel like I connect and understand him on a different level.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you can tell us why you like Socrates after reading ch1?
Delete(H01) Hello, my name is Arielle Cooper. I am a sophomore here at MTSU. I completed majority of my freshman year online so this is my first semester that I will be on campus for more than one class. I chose MTSU because it was close to home and affordable. I am not a fan of boring, easy classes, so I chose philosophy because I knew it would make me think harder and test my knowledge. In my spare time I volunteer with the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office. I have been apart of their Explorer program for nearly 5 years and I am currently the Captain of our post.
ReplyDeleteI am majoring in Criminal Justice Administration; however, I favor Sociology quite more so I may be switching soon. I do not know too much about philosophy but I am eager to learn!
Who's your favorite pop culture law enforcement officer? Mine's Barney Fife.
Delete(H02) My name is Jordan Sostrom, I am a freshman at MTSU and I major in Psychology while aspiring to attend Med School in the future. I chose Psych as my major, because I am interested in how we think and how those thoughts affect our behavior. My goal in life is to help as many people as I can, and my current job as an EMT and Combat Medic in the Army have jumpstarted that dream. Tennessee is my home state; I have lived there all my life, but I have visited several states for family and accompanying my father on his mission trips (Christian singer/songwriter). MTSU was the best choice, because it offers valuable courses and it is only a 20 minute drive. I think Philosophy is a logical way to express human thoughts and reasoning. I haven't read enough about philosophy to pinpoint a favorite, but I have read little bit of the Republic and some of Neizche's work. My Philosophy is grounded in my faith as a Christian while respecting the viewpoints, beliefs, and opinions of others. It is interesting to learn how others go through life and I look forward to discussing thoughtful topics and tackling tough questions together.
ReplyDeletePsych majors often minor in philosophy, and vice versa, if you're still thinking about that...
DeleteI think I'll look into that! Thank you
Delete(H02) Hi everyone, I'm Luz Tellez, but at times do go by my middle name, Alondra. This whole "call me by my middle name" has been the case since I was born, so not my choice (not upset either). I have a grandmother, who I'm named after, and to avoid confusion on which one of us our family is talking about, my middle name became my first name (odd). I grew up enjoying both names regardless.
ReplyDeleteI've been at MTSU since the Fall of 2019, and I am a junior with a biology major. The STEM pathway has much to do with the fact that I am pre-med. However, I've always enjoyed conversational classes (typically the humanities) like english, history, and spanish in the past, which continued in college, so in a way I was indirectly introduced to philosophy. I am very excited to have this exposure directly now.
A little bit more about me. I am the oldest of 6 (5 humans, 1 dog) - favorite sibling is my 10 year old mixed terrier who loves to run away from me. Murfreesboro has been my home since I was in the first grade (~2006), but I previously lived in Norcross, GA after having emigrated from Mexico (my homeland). Whenever I can, I go back to Mexico to visit my extended family, which is typically during the holidays. My family has been my foundation to how I've interpreted life and understood it. I like to believe that philosophy is everywhere beyond the "greats".
You (and other life sciences majors) might be interested in the Bioethics course I teach next semester...
Delete(H01) Hello everyone! My name is Beck Marable and I am a freshman with an undecided major. I am heavily leaning towards a psychology major though. I was born and raised in Franklin, TN and have lived there up until I moved to Murfreesboro. Some fun facts about me are that I like music(mainly rap and alternative), long boarding, and rock climbing. As for why I'm here though, I'm at college to further my education. I think philosophy is trying to find your own truth. I think philosophy is a little different for everyone. I do not have a favorite philosopher because I do not know anything about any of them. And my personal philosophy would have to be "be nice". That sounds simple but I think being nice and finding true kindness is hard to come by these days so I try my hardest to put some out into the world.
ReplyDeleteHi Beck! I really enjoy Psychology, it's also very versatile from business to clinical psychology.
DeleteI'm a bit wary of that phrase "find your own truth," depending of course on what exactly you mean by it. Some mean that they'll call "true" whatever they happen to believe, or feel with conviction. To them I say you're entitled to your own beliefs but not your own truths and facts. But if you just mean that you're looking for your purpose and a direction in life, that's fine.
Delete(H01) My name is Kade-Jah Browne, I am from the beautiful sister islands of Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua is known for having three hundred and sixty-five beaches!! I am majoring in Psychology with a minor in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and another undecided minor. I came to TN for college in January 2020. To me Philosophy is finding questions in facts and then thinking of the answers. I do not have a favorite philosophy quote or philosopher. I'm extremely new to the field of philosophy, but I expect it to be a journey.
ReplyDelete365! Here in landlocked TN it's always special to go to just one, which for us is usually Panama City FL.
ReplyDeleteAgain, philosophy might be just the minor for you...
(H2)
ReplyDeleteHello, my name is Aniyah Ehiemua. I am currently a Chemistry major and on a pre med track. I picked MTSU because of the homely vibes that it gives me (which is a rare thing for me to say). I specifically picked this class because I LOVE a good debate and I like to argue key points in conversations. I also enjoy thought provoking questions. I think philosophy is gaining knowledge and wisdom through asking thought provoking questions and finding a deeper meaning to life. I do not have a favorite philosopher, but I am very interested in Plato's allegory of the cave and his philosophy behind a "good life".
;) "homely vibes" could be taken as an insult, unless you're invoking the British sense of the word:
Delete1.
NORTH AMERICAN
(of a person) unattractive in appearance.
Similar:
unattractive
plain
plain-featured
plain-looking
plain as a pikestaff
ordinary-looking
unprepossessing
unlovely
ill-favored
ugly
not much to look at
short on looks
fugly
no oil painting
drack
huckery
Opposite:
attractive
2.
BRITISH
(of a place or surroundings) simple but cozy and comfortable, as in one's own home.
"a modern hotel with a homely atmosphere"
(H03)
ReplyDeleteHowdy, my name's Tori Pirozzolo. I'm technically a Criminal Justice major as of now, but I plan on switching to Biology very soon. I originally came to MTSU because of our Criminal Justice program. It was one of the best for an affordable price, so it only made sense in my mind to come here. However, I have been losing all passion for the area and can no longer see myself being happy with a job in the field. I had been trying to think of a new plan for a while and finally decided on getting a bachelors in Biology and working my way to a masters in Marine Biology. I chose this class because I've always been interested in how and why we think the way we do about various topics and beliefs. I'm really looking forward to getting to further explore a multitude of philosophical ideas. AS of right now I wouldn't say I have a favorite philosopher, however there is one I'm interested in learning more about. I can't remember his name, but I found out about him because a friend showed me a book that he wrote. I really enjoyed how he listed his ideas in bullet points and expanded on each statement below it. The best way I could think of comparing it is that it was written like a legal text. If you have any idea of who he is and what the book was called I'd love to know because I haven't been able to find it since. I think as of right now my personal philosophy is that no idea is ever finalized and there's always room for change or growth. I think it's important to remember to not get stuck in your head and look for solutions instead of focusing on how you got there. You can take time after a problem is solved to reflect on how the problem was created in the first place. If you think to hard on how something happened you'll never get to move on. I hope this all makes some sort of sense and apologize if it's a little all over the place. Once I get an idea I tend to just run with it.
Future Biology major? See you in Bioethics.
Delete(H02)Hello! My name is Alana Thomas and I'm from Knoxville,TN. I am a second semester senior and my major is video film production. I also have minors in African-American studies and Journalism. My ultimate goal is to make documentary films because I really believe storytelling and sharing our experiences enhances people's ability to empathize and understand--and I definitely think humanity could benefit from more empathy and understanding. I took this class really to learn more about something that intrigues me. I have always really enjoyed when philosophy has come up in my other courses especially when it pertains to social justice or economic practices. I wouldn't say that I have a favorite philosopher because I don't think I know enough about any of them to really choose, but I have enjoyed reading things from Karl Marx, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Confucius throughout my time here at MTSU. I don't know that I really have a personal philosophy but I came across a post some years ago that spoke about the relationship between empathy and wisdom that really resonated with me and since then I have been working towards radical empathy and constantly challenging myself to seek understanding. I look forward to getting to know everyone and having some cool conversations!
ReplyDeleteAs I mentioned, Du Bois was William James's student. "God be praised," Du Bois said of James's influence... https://www.jstor.org/stable/40320376
Delete(H1) Hi, my name is Elijah Strayer but I go by Eli. I was born in Columbus, Ohio and lived near there for about 8 years before moving to Murfreesboro which is where I spent my time up to now. I am undecided but am thinking about majoring aerospace or concrete management.
ReplyDeleteI decided to take this class because although I do not know much about the subject, and I thought it would be very interesting to learn. Philosophy to me is studying to deeply understand ourselves and the world around us. I do not have a favorite philosopher but am excited to hopefully have one by the end of the course.
Hey! I'm from around that area too! If you're looking for a philosopher from around Ohio, David Lewis is a recent example of one. I haven't learned much about him yet, but I had read that he used game theory to look at social conventions at one point. Either way I'm excited to philosophize with you, and to see if our "Ohio point-of-view" will be similar!
DeleteDavid Lewis, fyi, was born in Oberlin OH in 1941. Here's more about him: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/david-lewis/
DeleteAnd it just occurred to me... There's a more famous philosopher from Ohio, W.V.O. Quine. Willard Van Orman Quine, born in Akron in 1908. https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/quine/
DeleteAnd there are others, including W.E. Hocking (a student of Wm James and star of the book "American Philosophy: A Love Story" by John Kaag, author of the book we'll be reading last this semester... https://www.google.com/search?q=philosophers+from+ohio&rlz=1CAEURD_enUS880&oq=philosophers+from+ohio&aqs=chrome..69i57j33i22i29i30.4092j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Delete1 state down,49 to go...
DeleteH01 Hello, I am Anna Marie Holmes-Crutcher. I was born in Iowa and lived there until I was ten. I then moved to Tennessee and went to school in Spring Hill. My major is Global Studies and I enjoy learning about culture and how different people interact and are affected by everything around them. I am excited to learn about the philosophy side of culture and how philosophy and culture relate. I never really thought deeply into how they can relate but I hope to learn and develop ideas about it as this class goes on. I do not know much about philosophy but I am ready to expand my way of thinking!
ReplyDeleteSorry, looks like Iowa's roster of philosophers is not so impressive... But they do have the field of dreams!
Deletehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Philosophers_from_Iowa
H01 Hi, Im Stuart McMullen. I'm a sophomore majoring in Audio Production. I think i was required to take philosophy, but I still have a deep love for it, especially learning about moral, ethics, and what the reason being here is. I was lucky enough to have taken philosophy at my high school, and am glad im able to take it again. I'm not familiar with many works of a specific philosopher, but I really enjoyed reading some of DFW's work. He just seems like he knew and could comprehend much more than an average person. I read his "This is Water" speech and liked it.I hope to read some more of his short stories or novels like "The Pale King", although ive heard his stuff is difficult at times to read. I'm looking forward to learning more about philosophy!
ReplyDeleteHow many of us knew that "DFW" was the late David Foster Wallace, who tragically took his own life at age 46?
Delete(H01) Hello! I'm Moon Bartram, and I'm a sophomore majoring in Political science. I lived most my life in Hilliard, Ohio (which is near Columbus) but moved here 5 years ago now. I'm here first and foremost because I want to philosophize, I love thinking about the world and trying to understand how it is and what we should strive for. I also personally think like to be a good political scientist you have to be a good philosopher. I study political science because I want to affect change in government and society that'll benefit those who need it, but also because it is interesting to me how one can justify their own beliefs. One thing I always found interesting to philosophize about is names. I was interested enough to look into what my birthname meant, and I found out it meant "Defender of Man". Thinking of names it made me wonder if this label was accurate. To give a really short answer, I didn't.
ReplyDeleteThat's okay, as I said I'm no lover of horses either. (But members of my extended family are, for what it's worth... they're into the Tennessee Walking Horse shows, which have been criticized sharply for abusing the animals.)
Delete(H01) Hello, I'm Madison Smith. I am a freshman majoring in psychology. When I reach my sophomore year, I will minor in education. I was raised in a small town called Manchester, Tennessee. Not many people know of the location so I just tell them, "it's where Bonnaroo is." I lived in Manchester my whole life in the same house. I moved to Murfreesboro about two months ago so this is definitely a new setting for me. Psychology has always amazed me. I am obsessed with learning how people think and why they do the things they do. One day, I hope to be a children's therapist. I took this philosophy course because it was something new that I had never heard of before. My high school did not offer philosophy so I wanted to give it a try. It seems like it would be a fun time. I enjoy kayaking, reading, hanging with friends, and trying out new coffee shops.
ReplyDeleteI guess before Bonnaroo people from Manchester were from nowhere? Just kidding. I'll bet plenty of locals there would love to lose that identity.
Delete(H3) Hello, my name is Edward Alvarado. I'm from Lavergne, Tennessee, and i am a Freshman majoring in Political Science. I'm a big history fan, not in the "super obsessed with war" kind, but the kind that actually likes learning about other cultures and the history of nations and people. While I know philosophy is an important part of many nation's history, it was never something I had ever really dved deep into. I see philosophy as a sort of higher, more 'big picture' version of looking at the world, and while I never dabbled in it, I'd like to believe I'm a good thinker. I took this class to learn more about philosophy and how it can impact my thinking about the world around me.
ReplyDeleteI don't have a favorite philospher, but I do follow a responsive form of the Golden Rule, where I treat people with the kindness I would want, then match their energy and attitude over the course of the interaction.
Should be part of every nation's, but more importantly every PERSON's, history and heritage and reflective nature. But yes, people in Greece and France and Britain (eg) are proud of their philosophical traditions. People in America tend not to know that they even have one. Or care. They should read "America the PHilosophical" by Carlin Romano (one of our past MTSU Lyceum speakers).
DeleteI seriously dig that approach to the golden rule. I think I’m going to try using it :)
Delete(H01) Hello! My name is Eboni Godwin, and I am 17 years old. I am a freshman majoring in Political Science with a Pre-Law concentration. I was born and raised in Jackson, TN. I have been trained in nearly all forms of dance over the last 13 years, and for the last 6 years, I was a member of Ballet Arts of Jackson. In my spare time, I love to read and watch women's gymnastics (I was a gymnast when I was younger, but to this day, I have not figured out how they are able to complete those intense tumbling passes without getting winded). I believe that we will never know our life's purpose until we take our last breaths, but I know that I'm here because I find meaning in helping others achieve their goals, which I can't do until I achieve mine. In the future, I hope to become either a defense attorney or a malpractice lawyer. I am new to philosophy, so I do not yet have a favorite philosopher, but my personal philosophy is that perfection will always be unattainable.
ReplyDelete"until we take our last breaths" -- probably not even then. Others are likely to be in a better position to evaluate the total meaning & purpose of our lives as a whole. We have to live from in media res (in the middle of things) and find what purpose, meaning, and happiness we can as we go. Sad that some don't even try.
DeleteI agree about the elusiveness of perfection. That's one reason I'm not a Platonist in philosophy. Aristotle's idea that we should be always striving to attain our potential seems more realistic.
(H02) Hi, my name is Maisie McDonald. I am from here in Murfreesboro, TN. I am a sophomore and I have not decided my major or what I want to do, making decisions is a struggle for me. I went to Cumberland University for my freshman year but decided to transfer to MTSU this year because it is so close to my house and I have a bad habit of being late to everything. I took psychology and sociology as dual enrollment classes in high school and really enjoyed them, I chose to take philosophy because I felt like it would be similar to those classes; although, I think I was wrong about that. I do not know much about philosophy so I do not have a favorite philosopher or a personal philosophy, but I enjoy learning about how people think, and I am open to learning more.
ReplyDeleteYou weren't wrong, philosphy's a big tent. There are plenty of ph'ers preoccupied with psychological and/or sociological issues and concerns.
DeleteMy name is Jesse Helms (H1), for the past eight years I have been living between both of the Carolinas and just recently moved to the Murfreesboro area last year. I like being always on the move and exploring new areas and cultures or ways of life. I want to become an airline pilot which is one of the reasons I chose MTSU’s pro pilot program. The honest truth on why I chose this class was because it is mandatory for my degree, but I heard a lot of great things about this class which influenced my decision as well. “Philosophy” to me means a devotion to critical thinking and a love for learning and listening to new and often times opposing viewpoints. At the core of my being I believe that everyone is simply searching for happiness in this life. I go through my life while holding that belief and regardless what people find happiness in I try to impower them to discover their own joy. As of now I do not have a favorite philosopher I hope to discover one over the course of this class.
ReplyDeleteWere you named for the old NC Senator? Hope not, frankly, he was kind of a blowhard and bigot.
DeleteAlso, I think everyone at some level craves happiness but IO don't think everyone is pursuing it with the same devoted focus... nor would I say the pursuit is simple. But it's important, if you ask (say) Aristotle, Epicurus, Wm James... Or me.
Delete(H01) Hello, my name is Chris and I'm from Lascassas, TN, which is a small town just on the outskirts of Murfreesboro. I am originally from Broward Country, FL, and moved to Tennessee with my family in 2012. I am pursuing a major in Computer Engineering Technology, with the goal of someday working at a company that designs computer hardware, such as Intel or AMD. My only experience with philosophy is casually watching YouTube videos about analyzing a TV show or movie through a philosophical framework. I'm excited to take a deeper dive into philosophy as a whole!
ReplyDeleteHeya my name is CJ Watkins :). I’m a philosophy major here at MTSU and incredibly excited to learn more about the field this semester. I don’t have a favorite philosopher as of yet but I’m hoping to have gained a full philosophy conversation circle by the end of the semester. Let’s see, I’m from Murfreesboro, I’ve got 6 siblings, and I really enjoy playing guitar. I don’t have a whole lot else to say except for a quote that I let guide me “What a tragedy it is to think a person is more than a person.”-John Green
ReplyDelete(MALA 6010) My name is Jason J Lukawitz, I am a MALA future graduate, this is my second semester in the program, and at the age of 46 (soon to be 47), I can honestly say that I am not sure what I want to do when I get older. Professionally, I own 2 companies, LF Components, Inc., which is a broad line electronic component distributor, and ETron Circuit Labs, Inc., a STEM-based education company that introduces electronics to Middle/High school students, as well as college, trade and technical school students. Under that corporate umbrella, I have authored several text books that make up our curriculum offerings, and my book, The Basics v2.0 ‘intro to electronics” is part of a Department of Defense contract that has expanded the curriculums impact to military bases across the globe.
ReplyDeleteIn addition to my businesses, I also teach at Priest Lake Academy in Smyrna. PLA is a homeschool tutorial that meets every Friday throughout the school year. I teach a variety of subjects including a STEM class using the curriculum I have written.
I am married with two kids, and in terms of philosophy, I cannot name a specific person, however, I am often called upon to speak at events, as well as coach individuals and businesses. From a coaching standpoint, I challenge people to seek balance within their family, their career, and their calling, which when found, allows for them to fully take advantage of the God given gifts and talents that opens opportunities for truly great things to occur.
I know this intro is a bit on the long side, but trust that while long, hopefully it was not boring!
-Jason
(MALA 6010) Hello everyone! My name is Gabriela Ortega. This is my second semester in the MALA program and my second class with Dr. Oliver! I have enjoyed my time in the MALA program thus far and I am looking forward to this block style class. I am not sure what I will pursue following the MALA program, but for now, I am the Operations Manager at Chick-fil-A of Smyrna. Along with learning operational aspects, I also do the schedule and work diligently to build nighttime leadership.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to this class with you all! Best of luck!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHello all, just wanted to do a quick introduction! I'm Shira Lacy and I'm a first semester graduate student in the MALA program. I'm 36 years old and I finished my undergrad degree in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing from Ball State University (in Indiana). I currently work as a manager and also run an interior decorating and an e-design business part-time. I've been married to my college sweetheart for almost 7 years (anniversary on September 7) and we live here in Murfreesboro. We're both originally from Indiana.
ReplyDeleteI don't currently have a favorite philosopher but I'm very interested in learning more on the subject. Looking forward to what the rest of this course and program holds.
Greetings,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Malcolm and I'm eager to complete the master’s program under MALA soon. (August 6th!)
In my spare time, I enjoy mentoring and advocating for various causes. Currently, I work with Murfreesboro City Schools. I'm passionate about making difference and motivating others to do the same.
If i had select a favorite philosopher is Frantz Fanon, he explores racial consciousness and bias. In investigating the impact of colonialism on racial consciousness and societal bias , Fanon concluded in his book Black Skin, White Masks that “to be black and speak with perfect diction is still to be black, and therefore marked as special, unique, and surprising.” Thus reinforcing micro aggression and bias.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI am Favour (noticed my Favour is not spelt as Favor, American style?). I am an international student in MTSU enrolled for a master's in Liberal Arts. I would call myself a creative writer and a media enthusiast. I love and enjoy writing poetry, fiction, articles, scripts, lyrics; just writing something. After earning a bachelor's degree in Literature, I started an internship in a print media company, then worked as a journalist for a couple of years, still in the newspaper company, and later on in a radio station as a ladies' show host. I enjoy speaking on topics that interest me and listening to learn, otherwise. I would say I connected to Liberal arts because it involves learning from all the bits of what I love and it is a 'new' course. I love exploring new things as such.
I am not really keen on Philosophy but views of philosophers amaze me, really; so I do more of listening, nodding and learning in a philosophy 'environment' than talking it - I keep wondering "what am I gonna say!"
I look forward to meeting you all in class