First Paper Assignment
Theory of Knowledge
Dr. McCormick

 Choose one of these topics: 

 1)  How does Carnap resolve the dispute between nominalists and realists in epistemology?  What are the criteria by which external questions can be addressed, if at all?    Critically evaluate Carnap's resolution. 

 2)  What is Putnam's argument for the claim that "We are all (and always were) Brains in Vats." must be false?  What is the skeptical scenario he refutes?  Which skeptical scenarios does he not refute?  Critically evaluate Putnam's argument.  (Devote as little space as you can to discussing Putnam's full theory of reference and the other examples he considers.)

 It should be 2-4 pages long.  Proofread and spell check your paper carefully.  Follow the philosophy department writing guidelines at:  http://www.csus.edu/phil/req/writing.htm  Papers with serious spelling, grammar, or construction errors will not be accepted. 

 
Paper format:
1.  All papers should be typed and double spaced.
2.  All papers should have 1" margins on the left, right, top, and bottom.
3.  Use 10 or 12 point font. Arial, Times New Roman, or a plain font.
4.  No plastic paper covers and no cover sheets.  
5.  Paragraphs should be indented 5 spaces. 
6.  Papers with spelling or grammar mistakes will not be accepted. 
7.  Use quotes with attributions to support your claims.  For example:

 Kant calls his highest statement of duty the Categorical Imperative.  He says that I should always act so, "that I could also will that my maxim should become a universal law."  (307)