Phil 4320: Epistemology:
Paper Topics
The paper should be 3-5 pages and turned in in class on Feb 8.
1. What reason does Putnam give for thinking that "meaning ain't in the head", and what problems does this present for traditional theories of meaning. Do you find Putnam's arguments in this area persuasive? If so, why? If not, why not?
2. How do the views Burge develops in "Individualism and the Mental" compare to Putnam's discussion of the 'division of linguistic labor' in "Meaning and Reference". What differences does Burge see between Putnam's views and his own, and do you think he is right about these differences. Whose views do you find more persuasive and why?
3. What reasons does Putnam give for thinking that we could not all be brains in a vat? What significance would this argument have, if good, for traditional philosophical skepticism? Explain why you do, or don't, find his argument persuasive.