mit 271b: technology and human values january 8: introduction & film — synthetic pleasures
TRANSCRIPT
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: [email protected] 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.