1. Please choose one of the following questions and write a paper
of up to 850 words on it using a very tight traditional
construction:
introduction
with a thesis and previewed steps of development, body
paragraphs, and conclusion that restates the thesis and steps
very clearly.
1. In Plato’s Allegory of the Cave (Republic VII), we see the
prisoners at the bottom of the cave entrapped and subject to
error, illusion, and dogmatism. After reading our materials on
technology, identify and discuss a dangerous use or form of
technology that puts us in a situation similar to the prisoners.
2. What does Searle think that his Chinese room thought
experiment shows? Discuss his position in light of one of the
replies that he considers in "Minds, Brains, and Programs".
Either defend or criticize his position with regard to the reply
that you find most plausible.
3. Explain what is the "hard problem" of consciousness
according to Chalmers, and discuss it using Frank Jackson's
case of Mary in the black and white room. Do you agree with
Chalmers on that there's something that Mary does not know in
the room? In other words, do you agree that the hard problem of
consciousness remains even if the easy problem is solved?
Cite your sources properly, including in-text citations. Be as
clear and succinct as you can. This is a philosophy paper. There
is no need for a fancy hook or flowery language. Get to the
point with a clear thesis, and focus on the clarity and soundness
of your exposition and argument.