Up@dawn 2.0

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Introductions

Let's introduce ourselves, Fall 2014 CoPhilosophy collaborators (I'll tell you in class Monday/Tuesday why I call the Intro class "CoPhilosophy").

I'm Dr. Oliver. I've been teaching in the Philosophy Department at MTSU for over a dozen years. My Ph.D. is from Vanderbilt, my undergraduate degree is from the University of Missouri. I grew up near St. Louis. Besides this one I teach courses on Bioethics and Environmental Ethics, the Philosophy of Happiness, and Atheism. My favorite philosopher is William James. I like his definition of philosophy ("an unusually obstinate attempt to think and speak clearly") and his approach ("the philosophy of 'Co-'").


I live in Nashville. My wife is a chiropractor. We have a daughter in college and another in High School. We have two dogs (Lilli the lab & Angel the hybrid) and a cat named Zeus. My favorite daily diversion is walking the dogs, followed by biking and swimming. I am unreasonably devoted to Cardinals baseball. I do not approve of major collegiate athletics and football. (But, go Raiders!)


 I invite you all to hit the "comments" button below and post your own introductions. (Be advised, this is an open site. Be as discrete as you think prudent.) Tell us who you are, why you're here (on the planet, in this state, in this class), who your favorite philosopher is or what you think Philosophy is ("I don't know yet" is an acceptable answer), and anything else you'd care to add. Please remember to include your section number.

150 comments:

  1. I'm Christa Adams. I'm a sophomore majoring in Advertising under the School of Journalism with minors in both Spanish and Marketing. I'm adventurous; hiking and biking are two of my favorite things. I also have a serious case of wanderlust. I spent this past summer traveling and visiting family (I'm half British) in Europe for two months and will be doing it again next summer. In my opinion, to travel is to live. :)

    I'm taking "CoPhi" not only because it meets my humanities general education requirement, but also because I'm a very open-minded person and I believe this class will help me to delve deeper inside my thoughts about the universe as well as myself.

    I'm a bit ignorant of all things philosophers, so I can't confidently tell you who my favorite philosopher is, but I do like this quote from Socrates: “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”

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  2. Thanks for being bold and going first, Christa. I may lean on you as a travel consultant, I'm currently developing a Study Abroad course to be set in England summer after next, exploring the trans-atlantic connections between British and American philosophers and other thinkers.

    That's a great quote, whether or not Socrates actually said it. (We know he didn't write it, he didn't write anything.) I just got back from moving my daughter into college, where somebody in the welcoming committee had posted an alleged Socrates quote about the mind being "a fire to be lighted" etc. But it was actually Plutarch who said that, at least according to the inscription next to the bench in our Walnut Grove. But never mind, it's too soon for me to be so pedantic.

    More intros?

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  3. Anonymous2:22 AM CDT

    Hi I'm Val! I'm a freshman, undeclared major right now but I'll figure out when the time is right. I also love the thought of traveling, it's my dream to fill up my passport one day! So many cool things to see and amazing things to learn out there, hopefully my bank account will agree some day. :) I spend a lot of time drawing and thinking..I'm usually quiet but always eager to share my thoughts. I'm taking CoPhi because...I want to! I'm so glad I was able to take it. It's difficult for me to choose favorites but I am also a fan of Willaim James! Also, Sartre, Epictetus, and a few others. Can't wait to learn more! "Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it."- Epictetus

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  4. Anonymous2:25 AM CDT

    Mad because I spelled William wrong and it won't let me edit my post..lol :-(

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  5. That's ok, perfection (Wm James would agree) is a Platonic fiction. And if that statement's too cryptic, I'll explain as soon as we get to Plato... or maybe I'll just "embody"... ;)

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  6. Kylee Kerns5:50 PM CDT

    I'm Kylee. I am a junior majoring in Psychology and double minoring in lifespan and family studies. I love animals. I have four dogs and a cat that I adore. My original major was pre-vet. I like reading and binge watching television shows on Netflix. This is my first year at MTSU, so I'm very excited to be here. I don't have a favorite philosopher because I don't know much about philosophy. I have always been interested in philosophy, but until now, haven't taken a class.

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    1. My dad was a vet, & my younger daughter wants to be one. But psychology's good too.

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  7. Jason Robinson3:06 AM CDT

    I'm Jason. I am majoring in English education and minoring in Spanish, though my minor will likely change. A few of my many hobbies are reading, bowling, and playing video games. I try not to do too much of any one thing, though.

    I am taking "CoPhi" because I have always been interested in philosophy, which isn't saying much because I have always been interested in a lot of things. Still, I am looking forward to the class.

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    1. Both of my girls were stars on their HS bowling team. It's not as easy as it looks.

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  8. Jim Bratton4:42 PM CDT

    I'm Jim Bratton. I'm a sophomore this year, majoring in journalism. I am trying to decide whether I want to be a sports writer or a sportscaster. I haven't really decided yet. I am basically a walking encyclopedia of sports knowledge, and would be there to answer any questions you might have.

    I decided to take CoPhi because the class seemed very interesting to me. I really don't know too much about the subject. I have heard of the philosopher William James, but I haven't heard anything else than that. I look forward to learning more about the subject of philosophy in this class.

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    1. I'll bet you'll be able to help your classmates "get" the scorekeeping format.

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  9. Hello! My name is David, and I am a Music Education major with an emphasis in piano. I am taking CoPhi because I wish to understand more about other humans' actions and thoughts. I believe that knowledge is power; I wish to hold this power, but I want to hold it humbly. I am a Christian, so I follow the philosophies of Jesus Christ and his way of treating people. I love music, I love people, and I can't wait to learn great things in CoPhi!

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    1. Humans' actions and thoughts are endlessly mysterious, for sure. And Jesus was definitely an ethical philosopher, even though he smote innocent fig trees and such.

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  10. Patty Greer 137:03 PM CDT

    I'm Patty Greer, I'm a sophomore this year and a RIM major. I'm hoping to ultimately work from a production company, something like AC Entertainment. I'm the promotions director here at MTSU's student run radio station WMTS 88.3. I love to kayak, listen to music, and nap.

    I'm taking your class because it appealed the most to me above all of the other humanities options. As for a favorite philosopher I'll have to go with the one I know the most about, Thomas Aquinas. Coming from a catholic education starting at preschool and ending my senior year he's the only one I was really exposed too. And that's a real shame, so I'm looking forward to exploring the ideas of others and forming a favorite for myself. Ayn Rand is someone I would really like to explore more about.

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    1. Ayn Rand was an intriguing figure, but not (in my opinion) a great philosopher. "The virtue of selfishness" - really? But we'll talk about it.

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  11. Hi everyone! My name is Harsh Patel (I usually go by HP). I am a freshman this year at MTSU, majoring in accounting and minoring in business administration. A few things about me are I'm from India. I've been in the U.S. ever since the age of 5 and haven't went back yet. I'm also fluently trilingual. A few hobbies about me would be reading, traveling, basically anything that keeps me entertained/occupied.

    I chose to take "CoPhil" because honestly, I just needed a credit in HUMANITIES and/or FINE ARTS. Not just that, I also took PHIL 1030 because I really don't know anything about the subject. I've heard of some philosophers (mostly Greek). I'm always willing to learn and I also hope to meet & talk to everyone in my class!

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  12. My name is Sam. I have a very open mind despite coming from a rather conservative family. I have a pet rabbit named Gerald. You might think Gerald is a male rabbit, she is not. I do not believe Gerald's sexual orientation should decide her name. I am a huge junkie for live music. I love to play my ukulele. I love to travel; I recently visited Tanzania and Switzerland. I am one who appreciates art and people (which I view as the same thing.) I do believe there is a God but I do not let that hinder my ability to explore other options.

    I believe in fate. So, I can not answer exactly why I am meant to be in this exact class. I think every random aspect to a new environment is purposefully in existence to teach me something. I look forward to the discussions in this class and getting to know the people in it.

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    1. Interesting. But, when you say being a fatalist means you don't know why you're here do you mean that you don't even SEEM to yourself to make conscious choices? (Even if the feeling of choice is an illusion, as plenty of philosophers have alleged?)

      For what it's worth, one of my favorite bumper stickers says "Even determinists and fatalists look both ways before crossing the street."

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    2. I believe there is a set plan of what will happen to me in my life. Choice is a fictional luxury. If I look both ways before crossing the street but I am meant to get hit by a car, I will get hit by a car anyways.

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  13. Hello,
    I am Derek Beistad, and I am majoring in Film and Video Production and Anthropology. when I was younger I moved around a lot with my family, but for the past seven years I have lived in southern Minnesota. I am very excited that school has started and to be off on my own at this great school with my girlfriend.
    I am on earth to just live life! But I am taking "CoPhi" because philosophy has always interested in it. The easy and simple way to look at philosophy is to think of it as thinking about life. In that sense of the term. philosophy is included in every day and is an important part of peoples lives.
    I think that, in this world, too many people are ethnocentricwhen they could be more culturally relative and caring. I don't know too many philosophers, however I love ancient Greek and ancient Roman history, so I love Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates.

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  14. Hello!

    I am Christina Markee! I am a junior who transferred from Oregon to major in the Recording Industry because I felt there was no better location for this particular career. I've only lived in Nashville for a month and I absolutely love it.

    I am very excited to learn about Philosophy! I've never taken a philosophy class before but have always been interested in the subject.

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  15. Hey my name is Shania. Yes Shania like Shania Twain, my mother is a big fan of hers. I'm majoring in Pre-Law. I hope to one day travel all over the world and experience all the different cultures however the farthest Ive been so far is Mexico. As for the reason why I took CoPhi is because to put it simply i love to learn how people think. I like to hear all the different answers that people have to all the mysterious of life and i enjoy form and changing my perspective or at the least appreciating another humans view.

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  16. Hi!

    My name is Shorouq Ahmad, and I am a freshman at MTSU. I'm a Physics major, and a pre-med student. I plan to go in to the field of pediatrics in the future. I have lived in Murfreesboro my entire life...which can be boring at times. I guess that I should mention that I'm 16 years old. I completed some of my education on an online school which allows you to finish at your own pace, and now I'm the only 16 year old at MTSU- or at least that I know of. A few of my hobbies include drawing, photography, and shopping (if that counts).

    I chose to take this class because it was the course I was most interested in from my gen-ed requirements. I have always had an interest in philosophy. In short, I love to think about and question everything I pass by in life. As for my favorite Philosopher, to be honest the only two I can name are Aristotle and Socrates, and I still don't know that much about them. Maybe throughout this course I will develop an interest in a philosopher's work. I am really looking forward to this class!

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  17. Anonymous9:36 AM CDT

    Hello

    My name is Megan Fischer and this is my second year at MTSU and nursing is my major. I live in a student apartment here in Murfreesboro but I'm from Manchester, TN which isn't far from here. I'm not sure I have a favorite philosopher at the moment considering I'm fairly new to what philosophy is. I took this because it was a gen ed requirement but I'm interested to learn more about a subject I know very little about. By the end of the semester, I'm sure I'll be able to name a favorite philosopher! I'm excited to see where this class goes!

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  18. My name is Camden Smith, and I'm a freshman from Cleveland, TN. I'm still undecided on what I am majoring in, but I've narrowed it down to a few options. I've been slowly exploring philosophy more over the last two years as I had an excellent High School AP literature teacher who would ask us the basic philosophical questions in class. I feel as those discussions helped prepare me for this course! A little about myself is that I'm a sports nut who enjoys almost all sports. I'm a fan of most of the Atlanta teams as they're close to home, and a few teams from Philadelphia since my family still lives in Eastern Pennsylvania. I hope the debating about random sports topics with my friends has made me open to listening to an opinion I don't necessarily agree with.

    My favorite philosopher probably isn't too well known, the AP Lit teacher I mentioned earlier turned me on to Paul Weiss and his "Sport: A Philosophical Inquiry." It's an extremely interesting look at how sports affect the psychological and sociological behavior of humans watching and performing sports. With that said, I'm truly excited to learn more about philosophy. I think this class is going to be great!

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    1. Forgot to include this earlier, but I'm a Section 13!

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    2. I hope you'll consider doing a report for us on Paul Weiss's philosophy this semester!

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  19. Hi my name is Kyle Shortman, I am from New Jersey, and this is my freshman year at MTSU. In my spare time I enjoy playing soccer, and listening to music. The reason I decided to come to MTSU was for their Recording Industry program. I decided to take philosophy because, aside from being a requirement for the Recording Industry program, I believe that it will help me look at my life in a new perspective and question my world in ways I could not before. Currently, I do not have a favorite philosopher, but hope this changes as class goes on, I'm looking forward to a great semester in philosophy!

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  20. Hello my name is Alex Finke Sec 9. I am a junior from Memphis, TN and my major is Professional pilot. I am here at MTSU because of the aerospace program. In my opinion it is one of the best in the country. I am excited for philosophy class this semester because I want to learn the philosophical way of thinking so I can apply it in my own life. I am also looking forward to finding a philosopher that I can call a favorite due to his/her way of thinking and his/her perspective on life itself so that it will open up my mind to new ways of thinking and new ideas.

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  21. Kayla Karlovic2:17 PM CDT

    My name is Kayla Karlovic from section 10. I am a junior transfer student who just came here from Tennessee Tech. My major is early childhood education. My definition of philosophy is the study of existence and what it means to exist. It is a way of viewing the world with a person's own individual set or morals and principles, and how that defines how a person lives his or her life. My current favorite philosopher would have to be the late Randy Pausch, who used to be an instructor of computer sciences at Carnegie-Melon. He gave a last lecture after he found out that he was terminally ill with pancreatic cancer, and that lecture and the book based off of it were two of the most compelling philosophical works I have ever encountered. He talks about following your childhood dreams and not letting anything or anyone stand in the way of letting you achieve them. He also emphasized living life to the best of our abilities, because although we cannot change what life hands us, we can certainly make the most of it.

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    1. Thanks for remembering to include your section #s!

      Kayla, I too was deeply moved by Randy Pausch's noble way of facing his mortality head-on. We all have that choice, we're all terminal (that was part of the point of Adams' plummeting whale) whether we've been diagnosed or not.

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  22. Peyton Sorgenfrei3:24 PM CDT

    My name is Peyton Sorgenfrei. I am a senior, and my major is Psychology. I am in school full time, and I also work full time, so I am a very busy person. When I actually have free time I like to be with friends and family, and just relax. I don't have a favorite philosopher yet, but I am very interested in the subject of philosophy and our existence as a whole. So, I am excited to be enlightened and gain a favorite philosopher soon!

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  23. Hi! My name is Paige from section 9. I am a freshman majoring in exercise science from Nashville. I am here in this class to fulfill my general education requirement and learn why so many like philosophy, hopefully becoming a fan myself. I do not have a favorite philosopher yet because I do not have a deep enough understanding of any one philosopher. I have always thought philosophy was just a way of thinking and asking questions about life, and I look forward to learning more about it including what it's really about.

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  24. Hi, Im Jamelia Rowland from your Section 10. This is my first semester of my sophomore year and my major is exercise science. I'm also a baseball fan however I'm in love with the Atlanta Braves! I'm from Chattanooga, TN and graduate from Brainerd High School. In high school I played basketball, volleyball, and softball. I'm the only child between my parents but I'm the second youngest of all my siblings. I'm in philosophy for my general education classes but because I took physiology last semester and I was curious about the difference between the two. I'm at MTSU because I wanted to get away from Chattanooga but I didn't want to go to far. MT just seemed like the perfect choice.

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  25. peyton tilley4:54 PM CDT

    My name is Peyton Tilley (10) My major is in the rim program like a lot of people that go to MTSU; but my main goal is to work in studious with the great musicians of our time,and master their works. I grew up in Florida and i have a strong love for the ocean, my hobbies are guitar, skating, gaming, and disc golf. I'm extremely introverted and don't really go out of my way to talk or interact with people just because of anxiety. I'm taking this course to get a better understanding of the world that i live in, and take in multiple perspectives that make me question my life and position in it. More or less i'm taking this class to expand my mind.

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  26. Hola! I’m sophomore Clarissa Ceffalo from section 13. I’m a wrestler for the MTSU wrestling team (yes, we have one of those!). Equally as important, I’m a Journalism major, double minoring in German and Spanish. I know what you’re thinking “good luck with that,” and I thank you, whether you’re being sarcastic or genuine. Brief background behind my not-quite-two-decades of life: I’m a California native (San Fran. and Humboldt County, in case you’re wondering) who moved to Tennessee 5 years ago. What a cultural shock I went through. Fast forward to present day and I’m still shocked in TN.

    Like most people, I don’t have a favorite philosopher, but to temporarily fill the void, I’ll pick the great Kanye West. Until a less narcissistic philosophical person crosses my path, Yeezy will have to do. Hopefully, this class will broaden my views on life and allow me to understand (if not, then at least have a general idea of) several different perspectives on everything in life (or death). As a journalist, it’s vital to be unbiased and capable of viewing people, events, etc. from all angles.

    As cliche as it sounds, I look forward to this semester!

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    1. I'm pretty sure we'll be able to bump Kanye for you soon.

      That's my favorite cliche!

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  27. Anonymous5:51 PM CDT

    I did one of these earlier but I didn't add section number so I'm just going to redo it..

    Hi! I'm Megan Fischer from section 10. This is my second year at MTSU, but third year in all. My major is nursing. I live in a student apartment with two of my close friends. I love living in Murfreesboro. I'm from Manchester which is fairly close to here. Home of Bonnaroo which is the only interesting thing about Manchester.

    I took this class because it is a gen. ed class but it seems like it's going to be an interesting semester! My knowledge of philosophy and philosophers is very limited, so I can't have a favorite at the moment but I look forward to getting a few favorites after this class! This class is going to expand my viewpoint of the world and that really excites me.

    I'm excited to see what cophilosophy will show me!

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  28. Hi, my name is Josh and I am in section 10. I am originally from San Jose, CA and moved to Woodbury, TN about a year ago. I have a degree in Patisserie and Baking from Western Culinary Institute and am going back to school to get a BBA in Finance. I moved to Woodbury to continue working for my father-in-law as a design engineer in the semiconductor industry (my wife and coworker, Kathryn Fenton who is now a Pereira, was in your class last semester). Tennessee is a very beautiful place and I am happy to continue my education here.

    I have a strong interest in philosophy and had even considered majoring in it when I was graduating from high school 7 years ago (wow, I'm getting old). Though I do not have a strong background in mathematics, I find my brain really gets moving when physics and existential philosophy meet. I have many favorite philosophers but one in particular that speaks to some of my current core interests is Adam Smith.

    I do not feel like a have even close to a complete understanding of how the universe works but I am learning more about it all the time. In as broad of a way as I can define, philosophy is finding truth in the universe and simplifying it. I think that the laws of physics permeate the way we try to qualify what we perceive and explain in more specific ideas. I am very excited to learn about western philosophers this semesters and see how my views are challenged or supported.

    Thanks!

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    1. Say hi to Kathryn, and to Prof.David Wood at Yellow Bird Farm if you happen to see him.

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  29. Anonymous6:18 PM CDT

    Hey everybody, my name is Matt Eans and I'm in section 10. I'm a junior studying (this is the 4th or 5th one) Business Administration with a Finance minor. I'm more enjoying learning interesting things from many different areas of study rather than committing fully to whatever I will be doing after I graduate (hopefully extensive traveling paired with a job of some sort). I'm from Jackson, TN and graduated with only 110 students in my class. My dad, however, has moved a lot and finally settled in New York about thirty minutes outside the city, so I guess I'm kind of adapted to both small town and big city life. They are two extremely different places.

    If I knew the answer to why I'm here I wouldn't be in college. I'm enjoying learning and deciding that answer, though. From what I've observed so far, I could say that I'm here for different reasons. I'm here to continually expand myself in all aspects of my life. I like to think that I'm here to help others do the same and also leave a positive impact on the world, even if in a small way. I was born in TN and haven't saved up enough money or cut enough ties to comfortably move yet, so that's an easy answer to why I'm in this state. And I'm taking philosophy because the subject is extremely interesting to me. I find myself thinking very often (sometimes too much) on those big questions in life, but I've never formally studied the subject. This should be fun.

    I'm not familiar with the works of any philosophers enough to choose a favorite, but hopefully I will have one by the end of the course. I thought it was interesting that somebody mentioned a comedian during our class today though, because I LOVE comedy. I've also never thought about it that way but I guess you could probably say without being completely wrong that comedians are pretty closely related to philosophers, but not at the core of what they do. At the core, they are mostly entertainers. They do have more freedom to put philosophical slants on how they entertain though. So, (sorry for ranting), I do have some favorite comedians like Marc Maron, Louis C.K., Mike Birbiglia, and Kevin Hart. I think I've already typed too much so I will go now. See you guys in section 10 on thursday, goodbye.

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    1. Some of my favorite philosophers are/were comics. George Carlin and Monty Python and Douglas Adams and Robin Williams and Steve Martin... scroll down our site to find a comic-metaphysical history of philosophy.

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  30. Hola! My name is Markia Darby from section 10. Philosophy has been one of the primary components of my life and I really can't wait until we get to the deep stuff. My major is Engineering, so math and science are an integral part of my studies. I love "touching bases" on the metaphysical parts of life as well, such as expanding levels of consciousness, our linear representation of time (past, present, future) and lots of other stuff.

    All of this in a nutshell, my life is full of research and I can't wait to research some more! :)

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  31. My name is Brianna Bartelt (10). I believe my philosophy has to do with investigating truth. I can't just blindly accept something without seeking it out for myself. My favorite way to philosophize is through songwriting. It's like digging up and uncovering personal and tested truth. I am a very open-minded person, and I look forward to hearing others' individual beliefs. My favorite philosopher, so far, is Henry David Thoreau. I was very fortunate to visit Walden pond last year after studying Civil Disobedience and Walden.

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    1. HDT is on my short list too. James, Dewey, Hume, Mill, Thoreau, Emerson... and I take Aristotle over Plato.

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  32. Anonymous7:15 PM CDT

    My name is Nicholas Moore from section 9. I am a sophomore and I am majoring in physics. I am a music lover, and I play guitar, piano, and ukelele (somewhat). I love all of nature, though I am partial to mountains and forests having grown up next to the Appalachain Mountains, which is also why I absolutely love hiking. I am an animal lover as well, and honestly I feel more comfortable around them than I do around people. I would like to be a traveler, but I have only been outside the country once (on a trip to Germany). Hopefully I will eventually get to see more of the world.

    I am taking this class because it is a general education requirement. However, there were other classes I could have taken. Part of the reason I chose this class is because I think that philosophy and physics go hand in hand. Both try to make sense of the universe, though they take slightly different approaches. The main reason I chose this class is that it suits me. I am extremely introverted, so I have a hard time talking to people. When you don't interact with people, you tend to think. I think all the time, so I figured a class that requires deep thought would suit me well. I haven't studied philosophy, so I don't have a favorite philosopher at the moment, but I'm sure I will by the end of the semester. Until then I look forward to diving into the deep end in CoPhilosophy.

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    1. But of course it's also possible to think when you DO interact with people... ergo, CoPhi!

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  33. Hi, my name is Dylan White, and I am a freshman here at MTSU. I'm on this planet because this is the only one that people have reproduced on...for now. I am in this state because my dad and his family moved to Tennessee, from New York, where he met my mom, and now here I am, a native Tennessean. I chose this class because it appealed to me more than the other classes in its place. I don't know much about philosophy honestly. I am not a fan of watching sports; however, I do play backyard multiple sports, and my favorite sport is baseball as well. Section 13

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  35. I'm Josiah Estabrooks (Section 14) and I'm from Boston, Massachusetts. I'm here because music is what drives me, so what better place than Music City to drive to? I believe that the power of our world lies within the individual, but one has to be careful not to become too self-reliant or believe too much in their own ideals in order to avoid unhealthy conflict rather than progress.

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  36. Breanna Laux8:11 PM CDT

    Hello, my name is Breanna Laux (13). I am originally from California, but I have lived here in Murfreesboro for about eight years now. I am a freshman at MTSU. I am currently undeclared, but I am interested in law enforcement. I have wanted to be a police officer and work for the NYPD. So, yes, I want to move to the big city one day. I am also very interested in photography and like to take pictures in my spare time. My absolute number one dream is to be a travel photographer. I love exploring new places and seeing how other people in the world live and being able to capture those moments is easily my favorite thing to do in life.
    I decided to take Philosophy because I want to try and be more open minded. I would love to hear other peoples view points on various subjects, which is exactly what we will be doing in this class. I hope to have a good semester doing exactly that, and I look forward to it.

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  37. Anonymous8:27 PM CDT

    Hey, my name is Amanda Stamper(13). I grew up in Murfreesboro. I attended MTSU from 2003-2006. I was studying Music business. I decided I wanted to travel so I put my education oh hold and got a job in Yellowstone National Park. I worked there for a couple years then moved to Colorado. I worked at a ski resort for five years. I loved it meet some cool people and picked up snowboarding. I just moved back to Murfreesboro in May to finish my degree. so im actually retaking intro to philosophy to improve my gpa, but am interested in learning about philosophers and free thinkers.

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    1. Where will you snowboard in M'boro?

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  38. Anonymous9:06 PM CDT

    My name is Daniel Wiseman (13) and I'm a sophomore. I'm from Nashville, and I came to MTSU to find a purpose. Hopefully exploring the world of music and learning Audio Production will help me find one. I don't have a favorite philosopher, but Stoicism intrigues me.

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    1. Me too, to both points: the purpose of college and the intrigue of Stoicism. My old teacher John Lachs calls himself a pragmatic stoic. Interesting, surprising combination.

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  39. I'm David Chege in section 13. I'm originally from Kenya. I moved to the United States in 2000 starting off in San Jose, California then promptly moving to Cleveland, Ohio. My final stop was Brentwood, Tennessee where I have lived for 6 years. I started of in mechanical engineering in Purdue University and have since switched my major to I/O psychology which is definite passion. I want to end up in consulting and retire with my own firm in California. I'm redoing this class from last semester in a better situation and an open mind. By the way I'm also a junior.

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    1. Had a college roomie from San Jose. Guess you know the way there.

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  40. Anonymous9:25 PM CDT

    Hi my name is Victoria Norville, but I go by Ryane (13). I'm originally from Dyersburg, TN. I'm a sophomore majoring in biology. I spend a lot of my time reading, and have come across philosophical works before. I'm hoping to learn some different outlooks from this class and get my gpa up.

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    1. Don't forget to take Bioethics.

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  41. Hello my name is Caroline Moore, and I am a freshman here at MTSU. My major is accounting, and I look forward to becoming a CPA, then possibly owning my own business. I am very opinionated, but also very open minded. I love politics, and I firmly believe in equal rights for everyone. I consider myself a strong feminist. I know someone who took this class and enjoyed it, so I naturally wanted to take the course myself because I love deep, and critical thinking. I do not have a favorite philosopher yet, but I'm sure by the end of this course I will have more than one.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Anonymous9:34 PM CDT

    My name is Aaron Hand. (section 14) My major is currently undeclared, but i plan to take a path involving business. I am from Nashville, Tennessee and I graduated from Nashville School of the Arts, with guitar being my major there. I am taking CoPhi because philosophy has always been a topic that has interested me, but I feel that I am slightly ignorant of it because I have never had an oppurtunity to take a course involving it. In my opinion, sharing wisdom and using the input of others to better yourself is crucial to growth. I feel like this class will hit that nail right on the head, for lack of a better phrase. I do not think I could currently name a favorite philosopher right now, but I can think of a relevant quote from Confucius that epecially applies to me, being an undeclared major. It is, "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." I am hoping that over the course of the next few years that I can achieve that.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Right, if "work" means drudgery. I put a lot of time and effort into teaching but it rarely feels like drudgery (not counting Staff Meetings and bureaucratic paperwork for the university, though).

      Delete
  43. Timothy Vongrassamy 149:38 PM CDT

    Hey, my name is Timothy Vongrassamy from section 14. I go by the name of Timmy. I was born in Santa Rosa, California which i visit quite often. My nationality is laotian and this is my first year at MTSU. My major is Financial Institution Management and I hope to become a banker and pursue my career from there. I chose philosophy because it seems more interesting than some of the other general education classes. I couldn't tell much about philosophy, but I'm here to learn

    ReplyDelete
  44. Anonymous10:15 PM CDT

    I am A'Daysha McGill (9) and I am a freshman. I've spent many years in Murfreesboro so I guess you can say I am from here. I graduated from Oakland High School, which is about 5 minutes away from campus and I believe that MTSU plays a huge part in this city so there are many things that influenced me to come here. One being the diversity and the big campus. I am here to get a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and I am hoping to become a criminal or correctional psychologist.

    I believe that everyone has their own philosophy of life, but right now I have no idea what mine is... so that's why I am in this class. I am looking forward to hearing everyone's philosophies and forming my own!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Have you seen "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" & Sally's song "That's my new philosophy"? For some reason your last paragraph makes me think of that.

      Delete
  45. Who am i?
    My name is Katherine Hitchcock (section nine). I go by Qatie and there is no u because if a q is not followed by a u it makes he k sound. it makes sense i promise. I am majoring in psychology and i want to be a neuropsychologist because yay brains. I am also a fan of Douglas Adams:) my hobbies include writing and playing music, reading articles, and not long walks on the beach because i dont have a thigh gap and chaffing is a bitch
    why am i here
    because ive always enjoyed thinking about life, so why not? :)
    additional notes
    walking does indeed help you think due to the increase of blood flow to your brain and therefore oxygen, helping you think.

    ReplyDelete
  46. David Whomble10:48 PM CDT

    My name is David (13) I am from the state of Colorado my family moved here when i was young. my major is Biochemistry and the next question you might ask is why am i taking philosophy? the answer is pretty simple, i'm taking philosophy as an elective credit. as of right now i don't know any philosophers, except the famous names that every one knows, so maybe this class will enlighten me on the subject of philosophy as a hole.

    ReplyDelete
  47. MeKayla Swain11:18 PM CDT

    Hello all! My name is MeKayla Swain and I am currently a business administration major. Although my major doesn't necessarily require me to take Philosophy, I decided to take this course because of my interest in the human mind. It's amazing to learn about the things that brilliant philosophers have figured out about the universe we live in today. In this class I hope to learn mostly about general philosophy, but I'd also like to learn a bit about the personal philosophies that normal people have concerning their own day-to-day lives. It is my personal philosophy that the type of thoughts and energy that we emit into into the universe affects the way we view and live the life we've been given. So, in short, positive thoughts and energy = positive life. Negative thoughts & energy = unhappy or overall negative life. Whats your personal philosophy?

    ReplyDelete
  48. T.J. Bruster11:46 PM CDT

    Ok, my name is William (T.J.) Bruster and I am in section 13. With that being said, my internet timed out and I lost my original post, so I am going to post the basics. I am on this planet because I was the fastest swimmer. I am from Shelbyville, Tennessee. I am in this class because I am interested in others logic. I do not have a favorite philosopher, but I think philosophy has something to do with logic, reason, ethics and morals.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. "Fastest swimmer"-?
      If I get what you're saying (that you are indistinguishable from your seminal precursor?), there may be sticky Personal Identity issues to sort through here. (And if that's not what you're saying, I apologize for the tasteless joke.)

      Delete
  49. My name is Alex Old. I am in section 13. I like what T.J said about being the fastest swimmer, but I can say confidently that I have no idea why anyone lives on this giant mass we decided to call a planet. I have lived in Murfreesboro, Tennessee my entire life. I decided to take Philosophy (excuse me, CoPhilosophy) because my brother and I often have philosophical conversations, and I want to be more educated in the subject. My favorite philosopher is Demetricles (Demetri Martin). Philosophy is, simply, the art of thinking.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Hi! I'm JasmineLeigh, a nursing major. I am from Franklin. I like Spider-Man, subwoofers, and pink elephants. I'm on this earth to make my great grandma proud, take care of my kitty named Skittles, and to learn. I enjoy learning peoples perspectives and beliefs which is why I chose this class to satisfy my requirement. I cannot say I know a lot about philosophy or philosophers, but I enjoy reading Khalil Gibram since he has a positive philosophy about life. My favorite quote from The Prophet, "in truth it is life that gives unto life while you, who deem yourself a giver, are but a witness."

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I like what he said about parents and children: "your children are not YOUR children..."

      There's a big pink elephant on Charlotte Ave. in Nashville, not far from my home.

      Delete
  51. Anonymous2:35 AM CDT

    Hello All.

    My name is John Jones (Section 14). My major is Interdisciplinary Studies K-6. My friends refer to me as JJ and my Sinfonian Brothers call me Lightning. I love to teach and even more so I love to learn about everything I can. As well as attending University, I study Electrical Physics and Sacred Geometry.

    Why am I here?
    To gain perspective. I have never made an attempt at developing a philosophy of my own as I believe that everyday is a new day and my philosophy on life will change every second I exist. I believe that you must learn something new everyday or attempt something you have never tried to accomplish. That being said, I also believe in experiencing other peoples points of view and this is an excellent way of accomplishing that goal.

    ReplyDelete
  52. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Hello! My name is Melissa Ferguson and I am in section 13. I think I have a pretty good idea of who I am or what I want people to perceive me as being. First and foremost, I am a sophomore RIM student and am not entirely sure what I want to do when I get my degree.


    As you could imagine, music is an essential thing for me to live a happy life. One of my favorite ways to express my love for music is to share it with others. I am a radio DJ here at MTSU's student run radio. This has been a great opportunity to share the music I love. I also have many titles that describe who I am such as daughter, sister, aunt, friend and manager. Yes, I boss people around and get paid for it.

    When I'm not behind a mic somewhere, I really enjoy canoeing, sleeping, watching food network channel and watching baseball. Since I moved here from Illinois many of you must be assuming that I am a cubs fan. And although I was born in cub territory, I am forever a Cardinals fan. But occasionally I will watch a San Francisco Giants game.

    I don't really have a favorite philosopher at the moment. I can most accurately say that I am in this class to explore some possible answers to questions I have for life.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Cards fan from Cubs-land! You're not just saying that to impress me, are you?

      Delete
  54. Anonymous8:30 AM CDT

    who am I? My name is Kelton Jones and I'm in section 14. I'm a biology major thinking of minoring in anthropology. I love anything and everything about science and I love to learn. Reading is one of my favorite past times, but mostly fiction. Why am I here? The reason I'm in this class is to learn what my own philosophy is and to be able to learn others view points and debate about the big questions.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Anonymous10:39 AM CDT

    Hi my name is Nikki Elias and I'm a senior (section 13). I am a Jazz studies performance major with a concentration in voice. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida and moved up here for school to pursue music. When I'm not stuck in a practice room, I like to be outside in the sun. I'm taking philosophy because I am interested in hearing other peoples perceptions and perspectives on various topics. I'm not familiar with many philosophers but for now my favorite philosopher is Ludwig Van Beethoven, a german composer and pianist.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Anonymous10:57 AM CDT

    Hello everyone my name is Jack Whaley. I am a junior at MTSU majoring in Organizational Communications. Grew up in Lewisburg, TN, just south of here. I am still here at this university to get on track to make my mark on this world. Philosophizing I feel has always been apart of me. Greek times probably would have suited me well. Walking around in robes, hanging out talking about the bigger picture. Such as what does this universe truly unfold, why human nature is what it is, will we ever find ways to branch from this planet to communicate with possible other living beings, etc. I am a fan of Greek philosophy and would love to learn more about the Greeks and others. My favorite quote from my favorite philosopher, Epicurus, is "Nothing is enough for the man to whom enough is too little".

    ReplyDelete
  57. Anonymous11:02 AM CDT

    John Whaley, preferred name is Jack, Section 13

    ReplyDelete
  58. Anonymous12:03 PM CDT

    My name is Seta Lamallari (section 9) and i'm a pre med major. I was born in Albania, eastern Europe and came to TN to further my education. I'm a graduate from Lipscomb University and worked for a year as a Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pre-med? Have you taken Bioethics yet?

      Delete
  59. Anonymous12:05 PM CDT

    My name is Teddy Freeman insection 10. I look forward to learning more about philosophys many arguments.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Anonymous12:10 PM CDT

    Jessie Barber (section 9) I am a junior at MTSU majoring in Chemistry with a Pre Diagnostic Medical Sonography, to be an Ultrasound Tech. I also have a minor in Health and Human behaviors. I grew up in Nashville, TN and plan to stay there for the entirety of my life! I am taking Philosophy because it is required, but I am actually very interested in putting my views of the world into words and hearing others as well. I'm not familiar with any Philosophers, but I do have a quote that I love by Aristotle: "No great mind has ever existed without a touch of madness" I look forward to meeting and working with you all this semester :)

    ReplyDelete
  61. I am Blake Rowlett( Section 14) and i am a freshmen here at MTSU with a major in psychology. I have no minor selected yet but i chose to take class to help broaden my already open mind to even further views and perspectives of others. I believe it will help me in my psychology studies as well. My favorite philosopher would be Socrates, but i know very little and appreciate what i have read of him.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Anonymous3:15 PM CDT

    My name is Lauren Williams and I am a sophomore English major. I am in section nine. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music and going to concerts. I do not have a favorite philosopher but I am excited to learn about the different philosophers and their viewpoints.

    ReplyDelete
  63. Kameshia Jones (9)3:19 PM CDT

    Hello everyone, I'm Kameshia from section 9. I transferred from LIM College in New York city to MTSU last fall. Although I've been adapted to southern life, MTSU is still remotely new to me. I'm a University Studies major with a focus in professional communication, also adding a concentration in psychology. My interest in philosophy pretty much stems from my interest in psychology. In my opinion, I agree with Professor in saying the philosophy covers the different perspectives in which life is lived. I look forward to the semester with you guys!

    ReplyDelete
  64. Anonymous4:25 PM CDT

    Hello fellow students, my name is Hunter, and I am an Aerospace Pro Pilot Major.
    This is my first year at MTSU, and preferably will not be my last as I expect to continue on past a four year degree. I studied psychology in high school, later was intrigued as new ways of thinking about everyday occurrences dawned on me.

    The whole reason I am taking philosophy or cophil as Dr, Oliver calls it is because being a pilot you must have critical ways of thinking when operating a plane or other aircraft. Depending on how I like this class I will keep an "open mind" so to speak on further philosophy classes or critical thinking courses.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous5:19 PM CDT

      Oh my bad I am also section 10 lol
      ~Hunter

      Delete
    2. "Sully" Sullivan was thinking critically and well when he ditched his plane in the Hudson River, for sure.

      Delete
  65. Anonymous5:03 PM CDT

    Hi, I'm Amanda Greer (Section 10)
    I'm 19, a sophomore, and currently an Animal Science major.
    I'm probably going to switch my major to Radio Broadcasting after this semester, though.
    I'm originally from Romania, but I've lived in Murfreesboro for more than half my life. I don't have a favorite Philosopher, but I took Philosophy because the subject interests me and I think taking the class will help give me a broader perspective of the world.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Anonymous6:19 PM CDT

    Hello my fellow peers, my name is Dustin Chitwood (section 10), I am currently a freshman and a Forensic Science major. I also am quite interested in business marketing. I am also a pretty big football fan, and the New England Patriots are my favorite team! I basically have no background in philosophy so I do not have a favorite philosopher yet. However the reason I am in this class is because it interested me and I believe it will improve my views on the world.

    ReplyDelete
  67. Anonymous6:22 PM CDT

    Hey, I'm Katherine McCann from section 10!
    I'm 18 and brand new to MTSU as a student, but, honestly, I feel like I've grown up on this campus. Virtually every close family member attended MTSU in some respect, whether it be undergrad, governor's school, etc.
    I'm a math major (gross, right? haha), because I'm rather good at it I suppose. Ideally, though I'd be either a statistics or theatre major.
    As far as what truly defines me goes, I'm a typical overachiever, but I love to laugh and be on stage. Words and the theatre are my true passions in life. It's insanely cool to me how a single word or phrase or show can change a person's life.
    I'm rambling, now, aren't I? Anyways, I took this class, because I love critical thinking, and it was truly the only elective that seemed interesting to me. I'm so excited for this course!

    ReplyDelete
  68. Anonymous7:55 PM CDT

    Hello! I am Caitlin Bates from section 10! I am an accounting major and will be a junior this fall. I am a HUGE lover of SEC football, WAR EAGLE! I love hanging out with my sorority sisters, going to church, and taking naps whenever I get this chance. I had to take this class for a general education requirement but honestly I am excited to get a deeper outlook on life. I do not have a favorite philosopher but I do have a favorite quote that is kind of the "bud" of my motivation… "Be a leader, not a follower." My dad has said that to me since I was born. I feel like I was put on this Earth to be a leader, to make a change. I picked accounting because that is the only side of my brain that works correctly. I like numbers, I like taking a mess and figuring out how to organize it (I know, I am weird). But I kind of look at the world that way too. I'm very excited about this class!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What's that other old chestnut? "Lead, follow, or get out of the way"...

      Delete
  69. Anonymous8:57 PM CDT

    Hi! My name is Jeff Kunkle, I was born and raised in Tennessee and this is my first year at MTSU. I'm majoring in business management and am a huge sports fan, especially baseball. GO PIRATES! I don't have a favorite philosopher but I am looking forward to finding one this year!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous8:58 PM CDT

      By the way I'm in section 9.

      Delete
    2. I like the Pirates. Andrew McCutcheon is cool. And the '71 Bucs were the coolest team ever ("We are fam-i-ly")... so I hope they knock the Brewers out of the wildcard as the Cards take 1st.

      Delete
  70. Hey, I'm Madison Biggs in section 9. I am a junior and political science pre-law major with a minor in economics. I am also a transfer student from the University of North Georgia. I grew up in Murfreesboro my whole live and studied out of state for two years and decided to move back. I plan on attending law school and practicing dispute resolution law then running for public office. I am taking philosophy because it is a gen ed requirement and professor Oliver was recommended. I'm forward to a very exciting and learning experience the semester!

    ReplyDelete
  71. Anonymous9:06 PM CDT

    My name is Sam Wycoff, section 9. Im a sophmore and graphic design major. I'm in this class because I need it to graduate.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous9:08 PM CDT

      excuse my misspell: sophomore**

      Delete
  72. Anonymous9:15 PM CDT

    I'm Savanna Hill, born and raised in Nashville, TN. I'm a senior in college but this is my first year at MTSU as an Audio Production major in the works. I was studying Professional Music as a guitar principle at Berklee College of Music, but decided to come back down south so I could work more. I play for a living. Yes, I am a girl and no, I am not your typical singer-songwriter. I work for three country artists at the moment and I travel a bunch, but I'm really striving for that degree. I believe that one is never too old, too successful, etc to get a quality education. I also believe that you can keep learning until the day you die, so I am therefore committed to my education. Playing guitar is the only thing I really know how to do well enough to make it my passion and career, and I'm really anxious to learn what benefits philosophy can have for me and my music career. I don't know much at all about the subject, but I do know that it intimidates the hell out of me - all the more reason to learn about it. Since I'm not very adept, I won't Google some famous philosopher and pretend to know who said what famous quote and that it spoke to me...but there is one philosophy I heard first from my dad (wherever he heard it from) that I've managed to keep pretty close and that is to "keep on keepin' on"...I know, that probably doesn't count at all, but it sure as hell works for me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous9:17 PM CDT

      I am also in section 13...

      Delete
    2. Keepin' on is way better than checkin' out. It's a philosophy to live by. So is "learning until the day you die." John Dewey was all about that. He's my 2d favorite ph'er. (Who's your favorite country musician, btw?)

      Don't be intimidated by philosophy. We all have a philosophy, remember?

      Delete
  73. Anonymous9:17 PM CDT

    I'm Colin Copeland, section 9. I'm a sophomore majoring in fine arts. I aim to get into the animation business as a storyboard artist and possibly an animation director.

    I'm in the class because I love to talk about philosophy. Hearing other peoples' different takes on the subject is enlightening and also allows me to understand people better. It's interesting to see so many different perspectives.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Anonymous10:56 PM CDT

    I'm Jesse Hackworth, section 9. I am a junior majoring in Aerospace Pro Pilot. I am currently working on my Certified Flight Instructor License. I am also on the MTSU Rugby team. I am from Maryville, TN and am 20 years old. This class is a requirement for my major, but I am very excited to learn more about philosophy and different ways of thinking.

    ReplyDelete
  75. Aubrey (10)11:01 PM CDT

    Hello, my name is Aubrey Hill Kremer!
    I was born, raised, and continue to live in Nashville, Tennessee. At the moment I'm a music city cliche; a downtown resident brewing coffee for tourist while writing music on my break. I've been a writer sense I was fourteen which requires being an observer first... so philosophy and song writing go hand and hand for me. How do you know someones a vegetarian? Give them an introduction, they'll tell you (5 years strong). I have no problem talking to anyone, if that makes me stupid or smart is still up in the air.

    "there came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom"

    ReplyDelete
  76. Hello there, my name is John Phan!
    I am currently a freshmen and I am in section 14. I am Vietnamese-American and I was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee. I love to play soccer and other sports as well. I am here because I simply love to "know" when it comes to philosophy. You can not become wise all on your own. You must learn from others before you can teach others. I'm looking forward to this class and I hope that it'll be one I will never forget!

    ReplyDelete
  77. Anonymous11:41 PM CDT

    Hello, my name is DeAnthony Yonko from section 14. I am a Journalism major, and I am here in order to better understand the meaning of life. I believe this course will help grow me individually, as well as academically.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Tala Melhem11:45 PM CDT

    Hello! My name is Tala Melhem(9). I'm a sophomore majoring in biology with a pre-dental concentration. I hope to one day be an oral surgeon living somewhere exotic preferably near a beach. Although I was born in Tennessee, my family moved to Jordan in the Middle East when I was 8 years old. We spent 10 years there and its basically where I grew up. I love to travel and think of myself as quite adventurous. Rock climbing is probably one of my favorite hobbies.

    I'm taking this class because I thought it looked like one of the more interesting choices under the list of humanities. I must admit that I do not know much about philosophy. I guess I've always thought of it as just a series of questions. I am eager to learn as much as I can about it this semester!

    ReplyDelete
  79. Anonymous12:25 AM CDT

    Hi, my name is Katie Knell from section 9. I am a freshman and plan to major in Audio Production and minor in Global Studies. I have always admired the multitude of possibilities that comes with differing perspectives. Philosophy, to me, is not just a way to better understand why other people believe what they do but is also a way to better understand and to further develop one's own ideas and beliefs. I do not currently have a favorite philosopher.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Anonymous1:03 AM CDT

    Hey! My name is Hayley Mengaziol(section 10). Im currently a sophomore and a special education major. i come from the rolling hills of Knoxville,Tennessee. It would be a blast to travel and emerge myself into other cultures as my life proceeds. I live my life one day at a time; I'm willing to do anything once and that may not be good. But hey, college is where they say we find ourselves so I'm going to try my best. I love to explore nature and become one with the trees. I have so much respect for the earth we live on, and like to treat it with care for supplying everything I need without asking anything in return. I'm quite the laid-back person, and a proud introvert. But I do enjoy striking up an enlightening conversation as well. I've always been more of a listener, but I enjoy it. I love kids with a passion. They are just small bundles of willing to learn, grab life m=by the horns, joy. Dogs are also up their with the purest forms of happiness to exist. I like to explore myself and find out the truer meaning of life. I'm currently clueless. I think I'm here to build meaningful relationships and help people in any way i can. I love to help and I love to make a positive change in someone's life. I've got no complaints. life's been good to me so far(my favorite song). Anyways, I'm actually pretty excited to see what this class brings. I'm interesred in hearing anyones way or morals or guides. and i like to build my own off of the best parts of theirs combined. Feel free to talk to me, I like meeting new souls. Until next time...

    ReplyDelete
  81. Anonymous1:25 AM CDT

    Hello, my name is Kamau Campbell from section 10. My major is environmental science and health. I am I'm this class not only because it's an general requirement but because I like it. I don't know much because I just started having interest this summer. I currently do not have an favorite philosopher but by the end of the semester I will. I hope to gain a lot of knowledge and much more wisdom from this course.

    ReplyDelete
  82. Anonymous1:56 AM CDT

    Hi my name is Ebon'e Merrimon and I'm from section 14. My major is Mass Communications and I am nervous about taking this course. I've always been the type of person to question life and loved to gain wisdom but I always let religion be the explanation. I don't have a favorite philosopher but I hope to learn about the insightful people of our past. I hope to understand other ideas and morals of life throughout this course.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Anonymous6:44 AM CDT

    Hi my name is Evan Wick from section 9. I'm a sophomore at MTSU and my major is Engineering but I'm thinking about changing it to Astronomy. I spend most of my time slaving away at Amazon full time (night shift) and like to spend my spare time biking and working on cars. I am not religious for the simple reason that I do not believe anything is certain in life, but that does not mean I shut people out when they talk about it because I have a relatively open mind. One of my favorite quotes, “So we shall let the reader answer this question for himself: who is the happier man, he who has braved the storm of life and lived or he who has stayed securely on shore and merely existed?” is by Hunter S. Thompson, whom some may not consider a philosopher but his views have always made a connection to me.

    ReplyDelete
  84. Anonymous9:28 AM CDT

    Hello my name is Marie Alford from section nine, I just wrote a nice long about me and it didn't post for some reason.. So I'm going to give a nice brief about me now. I am a sophomore at MTSU, I am from Cincinnati, Ohio, go bucks! I am an early childhood education major, I discovered coaching Y league soccer that I enjoyed working with children and helping them learn. I am a huge sports fan, I have played soccer and rugby, but my favorite sport to watch on tv is hockey. The New York rangers are my team and I enjoy getting to go watch them play when I go to NYC to visit my brother. I do not have a favorite philosopher but I highly respect Henry David Thoreau and a quote by him, " what lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lives within us."

    ReplyDelete
  85. Anonymous10:11 AM CDT

    Hello my i am Charles Hull. I am a sophomore here at MTSU. I am from Memphis,tn. I really enjoy watching and playing sports, but my number one passion is basketball, GO HEAT! Philosophy has never really been my thing, hence the reason for not having a favorite philosopher, but the subject has always been interesting to me. So, i really looking for insight and understanding on the subject and to have some fun doing it.

    ReplyDelete
  86. Hello my name is Damon Stanley. I'm a freshman and studying Audio Production and maybe double majoring in music. I eventually want to become a DJ (ultra records), music producer, composer of symphonies for movies, you name it. I am a firm believer in God but I try to not be all in you face about it. I have absolutely no idea about philosophy but I love discussions so i hope this was the right place to be! I can't wait to lean about you philosophers and the past ones as well!

    ReplyDelete
  87. Anonymous10:40 AM CDT

    My name is Jessika Acosta (section 14) and I am a freshman majoring in journalism. I am taking this class because I want to write in a way that shows people a new way of thinking, to make the world more understanding one article at a time, but before I can show others I should be well versed myself. Opinions are important to me, I believe everyone should have their own and express it whenever they have the chance to enlighten others with new ideas. I also believe that we can only gain true wisdom when we understand how those around us feel and think. My favorite philosopher is my best friend. I do not typically agree with a word he says but he has opened my eyes to a new way of thinking, that I should not shy away and agree with those around me to avoid conflict but to love the conflict and participate in friendly banter to hopefully gain some kind of new perspective.

    ReplyDelete
  88. POSTED FOR BILLY Q. in sec.9-

    (First, let's see if you computer-savvy millennials can help crowd-source the technical issues he's having... then, see if you want to enlist in his group. I have a suggestion for their name: The Militias. Or maybe the 100%ers. Or the Platonic Perfectionists. I do appreciate Billy's sense of humor, his work ethic, and his service. I'll try my best not to piss him off this semester. And I'll post his Carlin video above.)

    I’m having issues posting my intro. I’ve hit the post button twice now and nothing is popping up. Does it take time to appear, or is there some waiting process since I use the anonymous “post as” feature instead of a login? I don’t want to keep hitting post and see it appear an equal number of times, so to make sure you know I completed the assignment, here is what I tried to submit (and may well have for all I know).


    Billy from section 10. I’m the balding thirty-something guy with the scowl etched in his facial features.

    My Background
    · I served 8.5 years in the Army (including four deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan), then another 4.5 as an IT contractor in support of an Army digital program
    · I’ve traveled to on or about a dozen countries across the world with the military, for work and for pleasure
    · I grew up just outside of Boston, am an obsessive fan of all four of their major sports teams (Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots), and miss these things called seasons that Tennessee doesn’t seem to have
    · I’m a big shooting enthusiast. I have three rifles, two pistols and a shotgun in my personal collection
    · I’m a Political Science major because I love politics, want to help effect policy and rig elections- legally of course


    I’ve never been into philosophy. Honestly, the Greek philosophers section of Intro to Western Civilization was the one part of the class I tuned out since they all seemed the same. I took this class as a GenEd requirement, but chose it to expose myself to philosophy with an open mind. I do find that comedians have as good a handle on philosophy as anyone else. I suppose it comes from having to observe people to write their routines. George Carlin was a man ahead of his time. For your consideration, I submit his discussion on euphemisms.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuEQixrBKCc


    So, if you’re still reading these intros and deciding who you want to be on a team with, allow you to provide some information for you to judge me on…

    I don’t want an A in any class I attend, I want 100%. I figure if you’re going to pay the money for the class, books, ect…you should do your best to make use of your time. I’m not obsessed with being perfect, I’m obsessed with giving my best effort. So, if you are reading that and thinking you can latch onto me and skate by while I pick up your unfinished work, allow me to tell you to piss off in advance. Any group I’m in, everybody is going to give equal effort or be called on the carpet for it.
    Trying your best and coming up short is perfectly fine; not trying, giving up, or assuming someone will do what you won’t is not. I realize that people have different strengths and weaknesses. Division of labor in a team should take that into account. Nevertheless, we should also help people get better on their weak area’s as time allows. This is a learning experience after all.

    If you are comfortable with doing your share of the task, I promise to give you that in return and help you succeed. I’ve spent over a decade in the “real world” and I’ve found things that have made me successful wherever I go. I’ll help organize, keep things on track, and show you methods and techniques you can incorporate into your lives for that. Call it a semester long life skill seminar for no charge. So if you’re ready to put some real effort into this class and do the best work you can, let’s team up.

    Thanks,
    Billy

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    Replies
    1. Oops, make that Billy from sec. 10.

      Delete
  89. Anonymous10:56 AM CDT

    Hi, my name is Max Erskine (section 10). i am an audio production major from bowling green ky. i am the type of person who seeks knowledge by any means available. i dont consider my self a religious person but i have nothing against it. i like my answers to be based on facts however. im hoping that i will gain a larger understanding of philosophy in this class. i dont have a favorite philosopher yet but im sure i will get one after learning more about it

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  90. My name is Mallory Nagy (section 14). Hopefully this isn't my second post on here but I don't think my first one posted. So, here we are again. I am 20 years old and just moved here from Ohio. I love country music but cannot sing at all. My roommate on the other hand can sing her heart out. We both moved here together. I love being outside. I love change and meeting new people. Nashville is my favorite city and I hope to move there after graduation. I am studying Early Childhood Education. Philosophy isn't my favorite topic but I have nothing against it. I look forward to growing from this class.

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  91. Anonymous11:34 AM CDT

    Hey, my name is Summer Lowery (section 10). I am a freshman and currently a biology major. I moved here from Knoxville and would like to eventually become a marine biologist but I am staying in state for a few years. I don't have a favorite philosopher or know much about philosophy in general but I am excited to learn more.

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  92. Anonymous11:37 AM CDT

    Hello, my name is Cody Marsh from section 14. I am a Computer Science major from Crossville, TN. I love to build 3D printers, play guitar/drums, and skateboard. I am in this class because I see Philosophy as the study of understanding life and the people in our lives. I hope that with a better understanding of the world we live in, I can lead a better life and hopefully help others to as well. I don't have a favorite philosopher yet, but I look forward to learning more about the subject.

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  93. Anonymous11:42 AM CDT

    Hello, my name is Ethan Hall (Section 14). I am a sophomore majoring in business analytics from right here in Murfreesboro, TN. I have lived in Murfreesboro all of my life and believe there is no better place to grow up. I have many different interests and hobbies including music, cars, and sports. I am taking this course because it fulfills a gen-ed requirement, but am excited to "broaden my horizions" by hearing many different opinions and outlooks on life. I don't have a favorite philosopher by the strict definition, but my father's "philosophies" on life have definitely helped make the the person that I am today.

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  94. Anonymous11:44 AM CDT

    (Section 10) My name is Rachel Galliano and I am a freshman at MTSU majoring in Nutrition with a minor in Exercise Science in the hopes of working with athletes at the professional level. I am originally from New Orleans but have lived numerous places. I enjoy hearing new points of view in all areas of discussion as well as meeting new people. I hope to learn new ideas and incorporate them into my everyday life.

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  95. My name is Joel LaFollette (Section 10), and I lay claim to Louisville, Kentucky as my hometown. I am a Recording Industry major, concentrating on Music Business. Eventually, I would like to pursue a career as a Music Producer. I am a musician; I have been playing drums/percussion for a about 6 years now and guitar for around 3 years. My daily hobbies will often let you find me either riding my longboard around campus or in my dorm room making music.

    I like to consider myself as someone who will go out and find answers to life and happiness (and all that jazz) on their own. I have grown up as a Baptist Christian. Now, a few years ago, I began to look to other places besides the Bible when it came to questions about life, morals, ethics, etc. and that would be around the time I became interested in philosophy. I find interest in the 20th Century evangelist Oswald Chambers. I understand he might not be a philosopher, but I must say if I had to choose someone, it would be him. His book of devotionals "My Utmost For His Highest" is actually sitting on my desk right now.

    Anyway, I have very high hopes for this class and hope that this will be a great semester. To finish up my introduction, I'll just leave a quote.

    “Human nature, if healthy, demands excitement; and if it does not obtain its thrilling excitement in the right way, it will seek it in the wrong. God never makes bloodless stoics; He makes no passionless saints.” -Oswald Chambers

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  96. 9. My name is Warren Osborne. I am a junior in Applied Mathematics - Statistics. I am 32, work as a nurse full-time, in 18 hours this semester, and have 2 kids under 3. Being 32 I have a basis of who I am and what I believe. I am here to be able to spend more time doing what I like to do.

    ReplyDelete
  97. My name is Ryan Branstetter (section 10). I'm a sophomore majoring in criminal justice. I am taking this class to meet a gen-ed requirement. I am also looking to kind of broaden my outlook on things.

    ReplyDelete
  98. I'm Jenna Jackley (section 10), a transfer junior native to Illinois. If you don't know, Illinois is just Chicago and a bunch of corn... I grew up in corn, which gave me a lot of time to think. I think it's important to question and solidify and evolve your own belief. I really like Kierkegaard right now.

    I studied music for two years then switched to business management. I moved to Franklin, TN in February

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I always used to drive past all that corn, en route to St. Louis, but now that my daughter's transferred to SIU it's become a destination. After three substantial visits since March I have to say I find the place fairly charming (and I hear it's an easy Amtrak ride out of the corn to Chicago).

      Delete
  99. Im Andrew Kingsbery (14) and I am a junior Business Administration major. This is my last gen ed class and I am really looking forward to it.

    ReplyDelete
  100. why isn't it showing my previous post anymore -Jordan Thomason (section 14)

    ReplyDelete
  101. Just in case i will make one again. I am Jordan Thomason (section 14) from a small community in West Tennessee called Frogjump and i am a criminal justice major. I hope to go into the FBI after school and eventuall work my way to the FBI. I am at MTSU becuase it is affordable and has a good criminal justice program. If anyone feels like they have similar interests, then message me on Facebook or instagram me @cordonlee0703

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Glad you persisted! And I'm glad to know about Frogjump. Made me think of Mark Twain's "Jumping Frog of Calaveras County."

      Delete
  102. Anonymous3:55 PM CDT

    I'm Jon Kitts (S14) I was an illustrator/ concept artist for awhile, then switched to web programming and then eventually I just fell in love with writing systems so I went into more of the csci side of it. After 3 years of trying to find out what I really wanna do with my life I transfered to MTSU and am now majoring in digital animation/ computer science.

    ReplyDelete
  103. I'd like to learn more about "writing systems"...

    We assigned you, in your absence, to Group 1 (or was it 3?)... the group in the back left corner, from my perspective.

    ReplyDelete
  104. Anonymous1:46 PM CDT

    Hey, y'all, I'm Katherine Witcher. I am a freshman from Knoxville, TN, majoring in nursing. I am in this class because I actually really like philosophy, and also because I needed another general education course. My favorite philosopher up to this point is Ralph Waldo Emerson. I just love the works he has and also his perspectives and values on life. My own definition of philosophy would basically be the principles of life which one chooses to live by.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous1:46 PM CDT

      Also, I'm in section 9! Sorry. Forgot.

      Delete
  105. Anonymous11:44 PM CDT

    Hello everyone my name is Abriana Wilks (section 9) and I am a sophomore from Nashville, TN. I would like to be a therapist and my major is psychology. I have always been interested in philosophy. I believe that the reason I am here is to change lives and make a difference in the world.

    ReplyDelete
  106. Anonymous3:15 PM CDT

    Hello everyone my name is Francisco Pezzimenti, I am from section 10, freshman. I am studying pre-med but i still don't know what i want to be. My first language is spanish and i was born and raise in Argentina.

    ReplyDelete
  107. Anonymous10:34 AM CDT

    Hello again, my name is Dustin Chitwood (section 10) i wasn't sure where to post my This I Believe links so I figured I would post them here. The first one was pretty relatable because as a new freshman I had a similar moment. http://thisibelieve.org/essay/19586/
    The second one was interesting because it is really causes a person to question their selves and their morals.
    http://thisibelieve.org/essay/14284/
    This final one gives an insight to what is truly at the core of this woman and it is quite inspiring that through all of her pain she had something to lean on. http://thisibelieve.org/essay/14284/
    To view the links copy and paste them to the address bar.

    ReplyDelete
  108. Anonymous12:20 PM CDT

    My name is Stephanie Cooper, Section 10. I am half-Colombian on my mom's side, I unfortunately do not speak spanish, though would love to eventually. My major is geology, it's my 5th year in college and I hope to graduate August 2016. I love to scuba dive and hike in my spare time, I also play the tenor saxophone in the MTSU Band of Blue. I'm not exactly sure what my favorite philosophy/philosopher is but I strive to live to make myself happy without impeding the happiness of others.

    ReplyDelete
  109. Anonymous8:54 PM CDT

    Hey guys! My name is Mariem Farag (section 11). I am currently majoring in Accounting, and minoring in Business Administration and Spanish. I love to travel, and meet new people from all different backgrounds. I'm into drawing, reading, and basketball. Nature is huge to me; I love everything about nature and life. I'm here because I want to learn more about this Earth we live in. I want to understand this cycle and life. I think this will be a very interesting class. I'm looking forward to an awesome semester!

    ReplyDelete

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