This thread is a discussion about topics in academic philosophy. Non-academic philosophy is off-topic. I understand academic philosophy is an ivory tower circle jerk--but if you're not interested, then do not participate. As well, if you think the entire tradition of academic philosophy is pointless, please keep it to yourself.
If you do plan on participating, you should have some background in philosophy, i.e. knowledge about philosophical texts, preferably at a university level or higher. Confident and erudite high school students are welcome as well.
Certain philosophical issues, such as the nature of free will, might seem approachable by a laymen, but this thread's express purpose is the discussion of philosophical issues within the tradition of academia. I don't want to see posts like this: "well i havent really studied philosophy but free will is true because...." You may have a valid point; I just don't want the discussion to steer away from academic philosophy.
Philosophical issues, such as metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics and so forth are the "talking points" of this thread. References to the works of philosophers is highly encouraged.
If you do plan on participating, you should have some background in philosophy, i.e. knowledge about philosophical texts, preferably at a university level or higher. Confident and erudite high school students are welcome as well.
Certain philosophical issues, such as the nature of free will, might seem approachable by a laymen, but this thread's express purpose is the discussion of philosophical issues within the tradition of academia. I don't want to see posts like this: "well i havent really studied philosophy but free will is true because...." You may have a valid point; I just don't want the discussion to steer away from academic philosophy.
Philosophical issues, such as metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics and so forth are the "talking points" of this thread. References to the works of philosophers is highly encouraged.