Seminar: Special Topics in Philosophy (410-0-3)

Topic

Ought to Believe

Instructors

Sanford Goldberg
847/491-8524
Kresge 3-431

Meeting Info

Kresge 3438 Philosophy Sem. Rm: Mon 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

The question What should I believe? is typically raised as an epistemological question, but many authors allow that it has a practical dimension as well. In this seminar we will explore two recent systematic attempts to address the question. These are found in Mona Simion's Resistance to Evidence (Cambridge University Press, 2024), and Matt McGrath's What Should We Believe? An Essay on Epistemic Normativity (Oxford University Press, forthcoming). These are the required books (both of which will be provided for free). We will address their books with an eye on addressing several subsidiary questions. First, what kind of question(s) can be asked with this language? What do these questions tell us about epistemic assessment? about epistemic normativity? What significance do these questions have for epistemology more generally?

Learning Objectives

The successful student (1) will be able to characterize the nature of the question(s) we are asking when we ask what we should believe, (2) will be able to identify how these questions bear on epistemic assessment, epistemic normativity, and epistemology more generally, and (3) will be able to express and defend an opinion on these matters in writing.

Evaluation Method

The final grade will be a function of the class participation grade (20%) and the final paper grade (80%).

Students will be expected to come to class prepared to discuss the day's readings; students will be expected to run a class discussion at least once; and students will be expected to write a term paper at the end of the quarter.