Phil 111: Introduction to Philosophy LARKIN: Spring 2003

Test # 3:

Ayer, Language, Truth, and Logic

Take Home Essay: Please write a 3-5 paged, typed, double-spaced essay on the following:

According to Ayer and the logical positivists, what is the nature, function, and value of philosophy?

This essay should at least discuss the following elements:

1. The verification principle

2. The logico-empiricist criterion of cognitive significance

3. The argument against transcendental metaphysics

4. The argument against first principles

5. A discussion of what the positivists would say about epistemology and ethics

6. Philosophy’s proper relation to science and common sense

7. Philosopher’s job as clarification and analysis

8. Philosophical propositions as linguistic and not factual

Essays are due in class on Tuesday, April 29^th.