Phil 107 F11: Exam 1 Study Guide

For each of the theories we have studied, you should be able to answer the following four questions about it:
  1. What is the background understanding of the nature of the universe and our place in it?
  2. What distinguishes humans? What is the nature of the human condition?
  3. What is the defect or problem with the human condition? What is the source of human suffering?
  4. What is the solution to this problem?
In addition, you should be familiar with the following features of the individual theories we have studied:

Old Testament
    Be able to identify major similarities and differences between the two origin stories presented in Genesis.

Hinduism
    Be able to describe Atman and Brahman.
    Be able to explain the source of the diversity we see in the world.

Confucius
    Explain why Confucius did not concern himself with metaphysical matters.
    Explain the difference between the Decree of Heaven and Destiny.
    Explain Mencius' argument that human nature is fundamentally good.
    Explain Hsun-tzu's argument that human nature is fundamentally evil.

Plato
    Explain Platonic Dualism.
    Describe and explain the Allegory of the Cave.
    Articulate the major conclusions Plato wants us to draw from this allegory.
    Describe Plato's Tripartite Division of the Soul

The Passion of Joan of Arc
    Be able to explain what an essentialist view of gender is and how this view is manifested in the film.
    Be able to explain how the film presents a contrast between the divine and mundane worlds.
    Be able to explain how the film address the conflict between personal versus organized religion.
    Be able to explain how the film address the conflict between reason and faith.
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