Introduction to Philosophy: Moral and Political: PHIL 1100H

Reflection:

My one and only Philosophy class of my undergraduate degree. I did read the class description, but that did not mean I understood what I was walking into the first day. I do not recall much of this class, but I do recall wondering “how many different ways can I think?”. This class was truly a test of removing my thinking from a square box formation of black/grey and right/wrong. There is always another answer to the questions, and another way to frame the question entirely. In fact, what even is the question at all?

This class was also a test of how quickly I could take notes. This was my first professor to not post slides, and as an avid fan of nice, orderly, handwritten notes, I had to get very good at writing and reading chicken scratch very quickly. I vividly recall leaving lecture with a cramping hand on more than one occasion.

Although not something that sparked any passion, it was interesting enough that I did have a spring in my step when walking to class. I knew I wouldn’t pursue this area further, but first year is meant to try new things, and that is what I told myself. It was not a waste to take this course, it was a chance to learn more about myself and what I liked and didn’t like. I definitely didn’t like the lack of correct concrete answers to a question. The critical thinking practice was beneficial, and an interesting practice. But I found I don’t thrive when everything is a “Why?” or “How?”. Why is it like that? Because it just is, okay? Let’s all settle on one agreement!

Rose, Rosebud, Thorn

Rose: Kathryn Norlock, my professor. Such passion and enthusiasm in her teaching. A couple jokes here and there and a love for what she teaches really brought energy to the content (especially when I had none to supply to this topic).

Thorn: Some guilt around feeling that I “wasted” my time with this course – it was clear I wouldn’t continue in this direction, but worth a try in case it was something I found myself passionate about (I wasn’t).

Rosebud: Understanding some of the arguments my philosophy major discussed with me when she continued with her upper year PHIL courses. Yes! Kant! I’ve heard that name before (even if I don’t remember what he argued).