Assignment task: In this module we have considered the possibility of our own knowledge (or lack thereof) and the rather serious threat of external world scepticism.
Descartes' Meditations provide a reason for thinking that we can doubt even our most basic and seemingly obviously beliefs. Stroud has underlined the severity of this problem, and we have discussed various forms of argument and sceptical scenarios that lead us to the conclusion that I cannot even know that 'I have hands', or that 'I am not a brain in a vat'. Chalmers argues that sceptical scenarios (such as the one represented in the film The Matrix) don't actually undermine our knowledge claims, but rather lead us to doubt only very 'deep' metaphysical claims about the underlying nature of reality. Through a discussion of Nozick's experience machine, we have tackled the question of what really matters to us when we consider these issues of knowledge and metaphysics.
In your original discussion post:
1. Summarise one or more of these readings, focusing on what you take to be their key philosophical point. These summaries should be detailed, clear, and complete (i.e. if someone outside of this class were to read them, they could understand and appreciate the philosophical view you are discussing).
2. Present your own views in response to the ones summarised. Do you agree or disagree with their conclusions? Most importantly: why? Provide a clear argument to support your view.
3. How do the views discussed in this module affect your own personal outlook on life? Have they caused you to reflect on beliefs hold? Do you think they can have any effect on what you consider to be the meaning of life (or lack thereof)?
Once you have posted your own original post, leave comments on at least two of your peers' posts.