Today we had the music assembly so schedules got switched. I didn't get to see you guys but Mitch did pass our your Philosophy Chapter 8. Based on your feedback from yesterday, I changed the assignment a little bit. Through our discussion we came up with 3 questions:
1. Is it okay to change your reality--shaving, dying hair, plastic surgery, make up--or should everyone just accept their own reality?

Ava felt that there are different levels of changing your reality. I mean, is wearing make up as extreme as surgery? Does it matter? What would Zeno say? Mario argued that all of those examples are now a part of our reality! Someone else felt the world would be so boring if we didn't ever change our realities. What do you think?

2. Argue for or against stoicism. Is it better to have ups and downs, highs and lows, or would it be ideal to live life evenly and unemotionally?

Ben brought up a great example of Spock from Star Trek. His race can't experience emotion as a way to avoid war. Is this a good thing? They can avoid horrible experiences like war, but aren't they also missing out on the good things in life? Someone else pointed out that your birthday wouldn't be as fun if it happened every single day. You need the monotony of every day to provide contrast to the fun of a celebration. Would vacation get boring if it never ended?

3. (From the packet) Do you agree with Zeno that the laws of nature necessitate everything you do or do you agree with Epicurus that your actions are free?

Your job is to choose ONE question to write a two paragraph response. Don't forget to write your heading in the top right hand corner, title your paper and please copy the question so that I know which one you are answering. Turn in your responses by next Wednesday.

IMPORTANT!

Tomorrow you guys get to turn in and present your fantastic Self-Portrait poems! I want to see what you've been working on all week. Practice reading it out loud in the mirror tonight so you'll be ready to give a great presentation.

I can't wait!

emma