Volume 19, Issue 2, June 1996
V. Alan White
Pages 137-144
Single-Topic Introductory Philosophy
An Update
The author examines the single topic approach to the construction of introductory philosophy courses. The author considers the single topic approach to be an alternative to more historically- and topically-based approaches. The traditional approach to philosophy is often broad and difficult for students to engage with in classroom discussion. A narrow and detailed treatment of a standard area or topic facilitates classroom discussion and allows students to transfer insights and skills in areas of their own disciplines. The author outlines a methodology that treats philosophical texts in an interdisciplinary context, which emphasizes to students that philosophy is not a detached field of study.