Introduction to Philosophy Paper Due March 26

General instructions:

Your paper should be 3-5 pages. Longer is OK, within reason. If it's shorter, you probably haven't adequately addressed the issues. All papers must be TYPED, double-spaced on white paper using a standard font (such as Times New Roman) with BLACK ink, and STAPLED. On the first page, type your name, Philosophy 1000, and Spring 2007. Do not submit your paper in a folder or bound, etc. Papers turned in late (without a documented excuse) will be worth 1/2 credit maximum. I will not accept emailed papers. They must be printed out and brought to class. No papers will be accepted after the last day of class. Use appropriate sources if you wish to cite outside material (i.e. NO random websites or Wikipedia). You may cite either of our texts, but do not include long quotes in lieu of explaining things in your own words. Please structure the paper as much as possible as given below (e.g. don't address the last question first- do them in order), but do write in paragraph form with complete sentences.

Paper topic:

Explain the difference between identity theory and functionalism. What would an identity theorist say about whether the character HAL in 2001: A Space Odysessy has a mind? What evidence is given in the movie that HAL might have a mind? Is this possibility compatible with functionalism? Why? Are there any reasons for thinking HAL might not have a mind? All things considered, do you think computers can have minds? Why or why not?