Intro to Philosophy Journal 2

Topic/instructions: Write a short journal essay of 400 - 500 words that treats both (a) and (b) below.  This journal is due by no later than 11:30 pm on Saturday, 10/31. 

You can organize your writing on (a) and (b) as you like.  But to write a good journal piece, my recommendation is that you treat both (a) and (b) substantially, so that you have a balanced journal.  Also, even though this a short journal assignment, paragraphing can be helpful for organizing your thoughts and making transitions, and I recommend that you think about writing your journal in 2-3 paragraphs, rather than just one long paragraph. 

(a) Discuss the role that the evil demon hypothesis plays in Meditation I of Descartes's Meditations on First Philosophy.

(b) Consider Med. I as Descartes's 'starting point' in the Meditations.   Does Med. I present a sound and viable way to start philosophy, or is it not viable as a way to start philosophy?  Be sure to explain your position! 

Making references: If you make a specific reference to the Descartes reading, then just make an in-text, parenthetical page reference, such as: (Melchert & Morrow, 152).