mit 271b: technology and human values january 8: introduction & film — synthetic pleasures

MIT 271b: Technology and Human Values

January 8:

Introduction &

Film — Synthetic Pleasures

INTRODUCTION Texts:

Winston & Edelbach Gelernter: Machine Beauty Readings at D.B. Weldon

Dr. Hundleby’s office: TC 410 Best reached by e-mail (brief and polite) Office hours: Friday 1-2 and by appointment Also may leave message at UWO extension

85877

What is this course about? Human values -- a.k.a. norms or standards --

are primarily the subject of philosophy Human values are generally distinguished by

philosophers as follows: Metaphysics (including religion, freedom, etc.) Aesthetics Epistemology (including science) Ethics (including politics)Assigned Readings

Some useful sourcesDictionaries - including philosophical

dictionaries, print and on-lineThe Effective Writing Centre:

Bonus of 1% for each of up to 2 x 1-hour consultations with the Writing Centre (book 2 weeks in advance to be sure to get a spot)

On-line www.sdc.uwo.ca/writing/

Some other useful resources Cyberphilosophy discussion list-serve:

send email to: mailserv@cariboo.bc.ca message to read: SUBSCRIBE CYBERPHIL-L

Infotrac subscription packaged with the Winston & Edelbach text

BUT you do not need to do outside research for this course. Our texts are sufficient to complete all assignments.

FILM: Synthetic Pleasures Theatrical release 1997 List of questions for

discussion on Thursday Involves some scenes

that may make you uncomfortable — e.g. pornography, plastic surgery. If you feel it necessary to leave, you may.

For ThursdayRead “values” and “Oh, for the days

when dinner was nasty brutish and short”

Consider the questions on the handoutWe will meet in groups to discuss the

possible answers.NOTE that understandings developed

during class discussion are testable.